Even so, teachers at higher grade levels reported that some primary students were coming to them without the necessary proficiencies. Shortly, even teachers who had enthusiastically embraced new methods returned to stressing skills, either on their own or as a result of encouragement from others. Textbooks, worksheets, phonics workbooks, and spelling books were very much in evidence. Some teachers, especially at the third-grade level, opted to give number or letter grades on student work. Status of the Primary Program in the 1996-97 School Year Newtown Elementary has retained some of the new strategies encouraged by the primary program.
Teachers report that primary students are writing more now than in the past.
Students work in groups more than they did before KERA, according to the principal. Hands-on math and science have proven helpful and interesting for most teachers and students, although the extent to which these approaches are used varies by teacher. Teachers are conscious of the individual skill levels of students and try to take them into account. Some teachers group students by skill level for reading or math instruction. Others give whole class instruction in the basic subject areas but require less of students who have lower skill levels.