A Baker's Dozen Apps for Content Literacy

by Matt Doran                                                                 Updated infographic with new content literacy tools 2/2/19

Skills: What do we want students to be able to do? Critically analyze texts, research to deepen understanding, and construct evidence-based arguments. 

Literacy across the curriculum goals can be summarized in three learning targets:

1. Read Closely for Textual Details

• Question Texts
• Analyze Central Ideas and Supporting Details
• Explain the Meaning of Words in Context
• Compare Perspectives in Sources

2. Research to Deepen Understanding

• Initiate Inquiry
• Gather Information
• Analyze and Evaluate Information
• Communicate Evidence-Based Arguments

3. Construct Evidence-Based Arguments

• Develop claims
• Support claims with evidence
• Use sound reasoning to connect evidence and claims

Here are 13 web tools and apps that support one or more of these targets. All of these tools are free at some level; some also offer upgraded premium versions.