Knowledge Library: Small-Group Reading Instruction | Grades K-5

The Structured Literacy Solution for Small-Group Instruction

Scholastic Knowledge Library maximizes small-group impact with integrated differentiated instruction and texts that support knowledge acquisition and foundational skills.

Knowledge Library: Small-Group Reading Instruction | Grades K-5

The Structured Literacy Solution for Small-Group Instruction

Scholastic Knowledge Library maximizes small-group impact with integrated differentiated instruction and texts that support knowledge acquisition and foundational skills.

Aligned with Current Research

Research shows that differentiated small-group instruction is highly effective. But where do you find structured literacy resources to support this powerful practice? The Knowledge Library can help.

Orchestrate Powerful Small-Group Instruction

Topically aligned text sets and differentiated instructional materials give every student the knowledge, skills, and support they need to read with confidence.

Turn Up the Volume of Reading

Knowledge Library resources support a high volume of reading on one topic and are organized across four disciplines: Social Studies, Science, ELA, and Arts & Culture. Each grade features 7 text sets on 7 different topics to hook readers, build knowledge, grow vocabulary, and increase comprehension across core subjects and content.

Boost Knowledge for All Readers

No matter where learners are on their reading journey, Knowledge Library provides rich and relevant texts to build knowledge alongside foundational reading skills. Each text set features authentic books and decodables on one topic, so students build deep knowledge across multiple texts.

Fine Tune Differentiation

Knowledge Library is constructed with differentiated instruction in mind. With a wealth of options to support individualized instruction during the reading block, educators can ensure every text is accessible to every reader—from those reading independently to those who need additional support.


“Knowledge seems to have a greater impact on text comprehension than do general reading comprehension or decoding skills, and knowledge may help to compensate for lower levels of comprehension and decoding skills.”


—Cervetti and Wright in The Handbook of Reading Research, Volume V (2020)

See the Evidence

Explore the research behind the Scholastic Knowledge Library.

Aligning Practice with Research: Using Small Groups to Differentiate Instruction

Why does small-group instruction work for most students? How do you implement it effectively? Get answers to these questions and more in our small-group topic paper.

Teach Reading the Way the Brain Works Best

In this webinar, acclaimed authors David and Meredith Liben look at the cognitive science behind knowledge, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Built on the Work of Top Literacy Experts

The Knowledge Library was created in close partnership with respected authors and advisors from across the education landscape. Their research and insights are the foundation of the Scholastic Knowledge Library.

Dr. Julia B. Lindsey

Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall

Dr. Margarita Calderón

Explore the Program

The core of the Knowledge Library is its text sets. Each grade level includes 7 topically aligned text sets with corresponding instructional resources.

For Students

Each topically aligned text set includes both authentic books and decodable texts for foundational skills practice.

4 Trade Books

Each text set includes 4 highly engaging books, 6 copies each, for small-group learning.

Decodable Texts

Grades K–2 text sets include 6 copies each of 4 decodable texts. Grades 3–5 include 6 copies each of 2 decodable texts.

For Teachers

Each text set is supported by a wealth of rigorous teaching materials to ensure effective differentiation and impactful knowledge acquisition and skill building.

Teacher Cards

Each text has a corresponding teacher card with implementation instruction, point-of-use discussion prompts, and targeted differentiated instruction, including support for multilingual learners.

Additional Teaching Materials

Teachers also receive overview cards for each topic, a quick-start guide, and instructional routines card.

Scholastic Education Platform

Digital resources for the teacher include planning materials, printable assessments in both comprehension and foundational skills, printable note-taking templates, and more.

Professional Bookshelf

Each grade-span purchase (K–5, K–2, or 3–5) includes a Professional Bookshelf bundle of five titles aligned to the Science of Reading to enhance instructional expertise.

Professional Learning

Full grade and grade-span purchases include professional learning so educators feel confident using this new resource.

Additional Professional Learning Sessions to Ensure Small-Group Success

Facilitated Implementation Support

Knowledge Library: Planning and Deliberate Practice

3 Hours | In Person or Virtual | Participants: Teachers
Equip teachers with strategies and data-driven techniques to set measurable goals and adapt instruction using the Knowledge Library. Through group discussions and collaborative planning, participants will leave with an actionable plan tailored to their unique needs. 

Knowledge Library: Supporting Instructional Leaders

3 Hours | In Person or Virtual | Participants: Principals, Instructional Coaches, District Staff 
Tailored for school leaders, this session explores the research behind the Knowledge Library. Participants will walk away with practical and actionable strategies to support their teams and drive academic success with the Knowledge Library.

Consultative Planning

Receive ongoing feedback and support to maximize the impact of Knowledge Library.

Ready to Orchestrate Powerful Small-Group Learning?