Choosing how to assign instruction in ULS
Start here
There are two primary ways to assign instruction in ULS. The right choice depends on how you want students to learn and how you plan your classroom instruction.
Option 1: Use Unit Lessons
Best for
- Thematic instruction
- Spiral learning
- Cross-curricular teaching
- Monthly units
Use this approach when...
You want students to revisit important concepts throughout the year while connecting learning across subjects.
Examples:
- This Is My School
- The Gift of Giving
How it works
Step 1
Start with Unit Lessons.
ULS includes thematic units that rotate on a multi-year cycle and provide engaging, age-appropriate topics.
Step 2
Review the Suggested Unit Pacing Guide.
Use the pacing guide to plan instruction across the unit.
Step 3
Assign content from the Planner.
Use Add Assignment to assign multiple lessons and preview activities before assigning them.
Step 4
Extend instruction when needed.
Additional units can be assigned if students need more content or reinforcement.
Option 2: Use Learning Pathways
Best for
- Sequential instruction
- Skill-based teaching
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- Course-style learning
Use this approach when...
Students need to build skills in a structured sequence where each concept builds on previous learning.
Examples:
- High School Biology
- Time and Money
How it works
Step 1
Open the Planner and select Assign from Pathway.
Step 2
Choose your area of focus.
Select the pathway that matches your instructional goals.
Step 3
Choose the appropriate unit.
Units are organized along a skill continuum.
Step 4
Customize and assign.
Select the number of instructional days, preview lessons and assign content to students.
Which approach should I choose?
If you want to...
Teach through themes and repeated exposure
Connect multiple subjects around a topic
Build skills in a specific sequence
Deliver course-style instruction
Focus on skill mastery
Use
Unit Lessons
Unit Lessons
Learning Pathways
Learning Pathways
Learning Pathways