Unlocking Complex Texts: Evidence-Based Scaffolds for Grades 5–12

Join literacy practitioner and author Dr. Mitchell Brookins for an engaging session based on the critical nature of scaffolding in literacy instruction. In this webinar, Dr. Brookins translates research into clear, actionable strategies that help educators support students in navigating challenging texts across content areas. With a focus on equity and access, he demonstrates how scaffolding can empower learners to build comprehension, vocabulary, and confidence while engaging with grade-level material.

Educators and leaders will walk away with practical tools to implement immediately in their classrooms, including scaffolds for text structure, language demands, and comprehension routines. This session is designed to move beyond theory—providing concrete examples, instructional routines, and planning strategies that ensure all students, including English learners and struggling readers, can thrive with complex texts.

What You’ll Learn

• How to identify the specific challenges complex texts present for diverse learners
• Evidence-based scaffolding strategies that support comprehension, vocabulary, and text analysis
• Practical routines for guiding students through informational, narrative, and argumentative texts
• Ways to integrate scaffolding into daily instruction without lowering rigor
• Approaches for supporting English learners and struggling readers while maintaining grade-level expectations
• How to design lessons that balance teacher support with student independence