How does specially designed reading instruction relate to the Learning Standards in English Language Arts?
English Language Arts is composed of a series of integrated skills including reading, writing, listening and speaking. Consistent with the Learning Standards in English Language Arts, students are expected to read, write, listen and speak for: • information and understanding; • literary response and expression; • critical analysis and evaluation; and • social interaction. Reading is one component of English Language Arts. However, because the study of English Language Arts includes the integration of reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, reading cannot be addressed in isolation from the other uses of language. The strengths and needs of a student with a disability in the area of reading should be identified and addressed within a comprehensive and integrated literacy curriculum. Additionally, the importance of early literacy programs and interventions cannot be overlooked. The Learning Standards in English Language Arts serve as the framework for instruction. The English Lan
