Overview
The Informational Reading & Writing Unit builds critical literacy skills through authentic, justice-centered learning. Over four to six weeks, students read, analyze, and write about real-world activism and issues of power, identity, and resistance. Using current events, biographies, and multimedia texts, learners explore how information shapes understanding and how stories can challenge dominant narratives.
Rooted in WAESN’s Five Framework Themes—Origins & Indigeneity, Identity & Agency, Power & Oppression, Action & Reflection, and Resistance & Liberation—this unit centers voice, inquiry, and community connection.
Educators will love this unit because it:
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Aligns with WA State ELA and Common Core Standards (Grades 8–12)
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Integrates Ethnic Studies themes into informational reading and writing instruction
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Encourages students to apply research, media analysis, and reflection to social issues
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Includes ready-to-use slides, handouts, and rubrics
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Culminates in a student-designed infographic and presentation project
Format & Duration
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4–6 weeks of adaptable lessons (100-minute blocks)
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Designed for middle and high school ELA courses
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Includes digital and printable materials
What’s Included
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Comprehensive lesson plans
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Informational texts and video links
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Vocabulary lists and word wall templates
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Writing scaffolds, rubrics, and reflection tools
Developed by MLL educators Andrea Chorney and Elisa M. Yzaguirre with support from College Spark Washington and the WAESN curriculum team, this unit helps students move beyond informational writing as a skill—and into writing as a tool for awareness, action, and liberation.