The revised KAS for Reading and Writing was adopted into law May 5, 2026, and is effective for the 2026-2027 school year. The standards outline a text-centered instructional model and prioritize writing that is grounded in the texts and topics students are studying. The standards call for integrated reading and writing instruction in which students engage in text-based and evidence-based writing experiences.

The reading and writing integrated approach is supported by research, including Dr. Young Suk Kim’s Interactive Dynamic Literacy Model. Kim’s model illustrates that reading and writing are intrinsically related, draw on shared knowledge and skills, and develop interactively and bidirectionally. Challenges in lower-order skills, such as phonological processing, will impact higher-order skills, such as reading comprehension and written composition. Therefore, the instructional implication is clear: Reading and writing must be taught together to support reading development and writing development. 

Educators should implement evidence-based literacy practices focusing on close reading, as well as foundational writing skills and composition standards. When supporting Composition Standards, such as C.1, C.2 and C.3, recommendations include using coherent language aligned with KAS rubrics for targeted feedback on strong claims, effective evidence and logical reasoning. Additionally, teachers should consider using Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) Conferencing Guides and multiple levels of scaffolding—such as modeling, shared writing, group writing, and paired writing—to bridge direct instruction to independent written composition.

To support the implementation of text-based writing check out these additional resources:

For more information on the revised standards enroll in the self-paced course, Getting to Know the KAS for Reading and Writing in the KYLearningHUB. Please contact the ELA Team with any questions.