High-Quality TEKS-Aligned Instructional Materials Developed Using Cognitive Science
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has just announced the availability of the Texas Open Education Resources (OER) textbooks, launching a public feedback process. This initiative, driven by House Bill (HB) 1605 from the 88th Regular Session, aims to support teachers and improve student outcomes by providing state-owned instructional materials.
What Are Texas OER Textbooks?
Texas OER textbooks are crafted specifically for Texas schools, aligning with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. Utilizing the latest evidence from cognitive science, these resources offer teachers high-quality, grade-level materials to enhance their instruction and provide personalized support to students. As state-owned resources, Texas OER textbooks are free and open for continuous improvement.
Two Core Sets of Texas OER Textbooks
- OER K-5 Reading & Language Arts (RLA):
- Covers English Reading and Language Arts TEKS.
- Blends science of reading with cross-curricular content in art, history, culture, science, and technology.
- Highlights diverse Texas heritage and classical literature.
- OER K-8/Algebra Mathematics:
- Comprehensive materials aligned with Math TEKS.
- Builds a strong foundation in arithmetic and mathematical reasoning.
- Developed based on cognitive and developmental science principles.
Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) Process
HB 1605 also introduced the Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process, enabling the State Board of Education (SBOE) to review and approve high-quality instructional materials. The public can review and comment on these resources via the SBOE’s IMRA webpage.
Benefits of Texas OER Textbooks
- For Teachers: Access to rigorous, relevant, on-grade-level materials that reflect students’ experiences and can be customized to meet individual needs.
- For Parents: Online accessibility ensures parents can stay informed about their child’s education. Each unit includes a family letter explaining upcoming lessons.
- For Students: Ensures access to grade-level content, promotes academic success, and bridges knowledge gaps across different socioeconomic backgrounds.
Collaboration and Development
Texas OER textbooks were developed in collaboration with teachers and parents to ensure relevance and effectiveness. These materials meet the SBOE’s quality standards and are undergoing the IMRA review process. If approved, they will be optional resources for Texas school systems, maintaining local control over instructional materials.
How Educational Support Services Can Help
At Educational Support Services, we specialize in guiding school districts and state boards of education through implementing high-quality instructional materials like Texas OER textbooks. Our expert team offers comprehensive support, including:
- Professional Development: Training educators on integrating OER materials into their curriculum.
- Curriculum Alignment: Ensuring materials align with state standards and local needs.
- Feedback Facilitation: Assisting in gathering and analyzing feedback during public review processes.
- Resource Customization: Helping districts tailor OER materials to better serve their student populations.
We are committed to helping educational institutions achieve excellence in teaching and learning. Contact us to learn how we can support your district or state board of education in adopting and maximizing the benefits of Texas OER textbooks.
For more information and to access and review the Texas OER textbooks and instructional materials, visit sboe.texas.gov/imra.
To learn more about HB 1605, the IMRA process, and OER materials, visit TEA’s House Bill 1605 and IMRA webpage.
For insights on the broader implications of these materials, read Governor Abbott’s statement on TEA’s new OER instructional materials.
To understand how these textbooks aim to improve student outcomes, visit KXAN’s coverage on the release of Texas OER textbooks.