Wit & Wisdom is a complete English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It’s structured around knowledge-building lessons and uses real, complex texts to teach reading, writing, and language skills.
This article will break down Wit & Wisdom’s key components and features, explaining the benefits for teachers, students, and families.
Core Curriculum Components
Let’s take a look at the various parts of the Wit & Wisdom curriculum:
- Teacher Edition. This edition gives teachers detailed lesson plans, learning goals, and information about how the curriculum aligns with state and national standards. Digital versions are available, too.
- Student Edition. These workbooks contain graphic organizers to help students understand what they’re reading. They also include high-quality, complex texts intended to boost learning.
- Volume of Reading. Wit & Wisdom also offers extra texts for deeper learning and practice.
Digital Resources and Assessment
Today’s educators need the right tools to plan and deliver lessons effectively, and to assess student progress accurately. Wit & Wisdom offers a range of digital tools to help.
Digital Teacher Edition and Lesson Slides
These resources are designed to make lesson planning and delivery a snap. Teachers can search for specific content easily and access what they need quickly.
Digital Assessments
Digital assessments allow teachers to track each student’s progress and pinpoint areas where they might need extra help. Student assessment packs are also available in print.
Support for diverse learners and family engagement
The Wit & Wisdom curriculum includes some helpful resources to support all learners, including those who are multilingual. Here are a few:
- Multilingual learner resources for grades K-5
- Wit & Wisdom Prologue, designed for grades 6-8 to help bridge learning gaps
- Family engagement resources, with tip sheets to guide at-home learning and strengthen the connection between home and school
These resources aim to make the curriculum accessible and engaging for all students and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wit short for Wisdom?
No, “wit” is not short for “wisdom,” though the terms are sometimes used together. Wit refers to sharp intelligence, cleverness, and the ability to express oneself humorously and aptly. Wisdom, on the other hand, implies deeper understanding, good judgment, and the ability to make sound decisions based on experience and knowledge.
What is the meaning of Wit and Wisdom?
“Wit and Wisdom” often refers to the combination of intelligence, cleverness, and humor with deep understanding and good judgment. It suggests a person who is not only quick-witted and amusing but also possesses the insight and knowledge to offer valuable perspectives and make wise choices. It’s the sweet spot between cleverness and intelligence.
Why is Wit and Wisdom Controversial?
Wit and Wisdom, the curriculum, has been controversial due to concerns about its content, complexity, and appropriateness for certain grade levels. Some critics argue that the texts used are too challenging for younger students, that the curriculum’s focus may not align with local standards, and that some topics explored are too mature or sensitive for some children. Parents have voiced concern.
In Closing
Wit & Wisdom provides a rich and compelling approach to teaching English Language Arts. By making the most of its resources and components, educators can cultivate critical thinking skills and build knowledge in their students.
The curriculum’s attention to family involvement and diverse learners only adds to its usefulness and broad appeal.