Curriculum & Instruction

Literacy

The Puyallup School District believes that literacy is the core of all learning. To thrive in the world, one must be well-read. A broad knowledge base is essential, but even more important, one must be able to think — to make connections between texts, the world, and oneself. To be a contributing member of society, one must also be able to communicate effectively both in a conversation and in writing. To achieve mastery in reading, writing, and communication, students need many opportunities to practice in a variety of modes.

Literature for the 21st Century

Several years ago, the novel review task force recommended that the district choose five multicultural novels per secondary grade level. This list is referred to as "Literature for the 21st Century," or the "21st Century Novels."

Of the five novels, the task force selected two novels that are required reading for that grade level, so that there can be a common reading assessment for each grade level.

The following links go to information about the 21st Century Novels.

Literacy News

Reading interventions give students added support (9/1/09)
Student journalists shine on the national stage (6/17/09)
Students celebrate Read Across America Day (3/2/09)
Teenagers invited to enter writing contest (1/29/09)
Book drive to aid children in Uganda (12/21/08)
Firgrove principal earns state library award (10/10/08)
Puyallup High newspaper adviser named among nation’s best (10/7/08)

Read archived news stories about literacy education in the Puyallup School District.

Contact

For more information, please contact Vince Pecchia, director of student learning for literacy and social studies at (253) 840-8916.

Updated 9/1/09