The independent research firm LXD Research found that Foundations A-Z meets all of the requirements for ESSA Level 4 evidence-logic model based on research, research documentation connecting academic research studies to features in the program, a planned efficacy study, and its own thorough review of the documentation for validation.
ESSA Evidence Level:
Demonstrates a rationale to be effective.
Main Findings:
Foundations A-Z follows a systematic, cumulative scope and sequence while perfectly aligning with Science of Reading research. Foundations A-Z provides 32 weeks of daily, standards-aligned lesson plans and effectively integrates discipline-specific and cultural knowledge along with differentiated instruction and customized individual supports. Highlights of this K-5 program include embedded professional development, explicit, systematic, and cumulative instruction, digital-first, independent student practice opportunities, clearly modeled lessons, and engaging skill-building opportunities for students. Both short-term/ intermediate outcomes and long-term impacts are spelled out in the Logic Model included in the evidence packet.
About the Independent Research Firm Conducting the Evaluation:
LXD Research is an independent evaluation, research, and consulting division within the Charles River Media Group (Needham, MA). LXD focuses on building and communicating evidence for educational programs by conducting rigorous research studies, integrating multifaceted data analytics reporting, and designing dynamic content to disseminate insights.
Evaluation Process:
LXD conducted interviews with product designers and closely examined the Foundations A-Z research documentation, including the materials prepared for EdReports, which awarded Foundations A-Z its highest “all green” rating, and Digital Promise, which gave the program its Research-Based Design Certification. LXD then linked the research to specific product features to prove the alignment with expected outcomes as defined in the Logic Model.
