Complexity and Quality examines a critical instructional challenge: schools are increasingly expected to teach complex topics, yet often rely on materials that lack depth, rigor, or authenticity.

This white paper explains how oversimplified texts can limit student understanding, weaken critical thinking, and reduce engagement—especially when addressing real-world issues. It provides guidance for selecting high-quality instructional materials that maintain complexity while remaining accessible to diverse learners.

Key Benefits

With this resource, education leaders can:

• Understand why simplified materials fail complex instruction
• Identify characteristics of high-quality, rigorous content
• Balance accessibility with cognitive demand
• Support instruction that builds knowledge, vocabulary, and reasoning
• Make informed decisions about curriculum and content adoption

Who Should Use This White Paper?

This resource is designed for:

• District curriculum and instruction leaders
• School administrators
• Literacy and content specialists
• Instructional leadership teams