The independent research firm LXD Research found that Writing 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:
Writing A-Z provides explicit and systematic writing instruction for students from Kindergarten through Grade 5. The program follows a gradual release model, presenting a continuum of essential writing and grammar skills critical to literacy success. Following research-based best practices, Writing A-Z integrates genre and process writing throughout its units. A scaffolded approach combined with robust and varied ongoing assessment opportunities ensures that students receive instruction that meets their needs. Throughout the grades, Writing A-Z helps teachers establish a safe writing community in which all children see themselves as writers. Students can use Writing and Learning Together (WaLT), a digital writing platform developed specifically for this product, to go through all stages of the writing process. Other highlights of the program include culturally responsive teaching tips and embedded phonics, handwriting, spelling, editing, sentence structure, and fluency instruction. 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 Research 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 Research conducted interviews with product designers and closely examined the Writing A-Z research documentation, including the materials prepared for Digital Promise, which gave the program its Research-Based Design Certification. LXD Research then linked the research to specific product features to prove the alignment with expected outcomes as defined in the Logic Model.
