The Jacob's Ladder Reading Comprehension Program targets reading comprehension skills in high-ability learners by moving students through an inquiry process from basic understanding to critical analyses of texts, using a field-tested method developed by the Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary. Students in grade 4 will learn to comprehend and analyze any reading passage after completing the activities in Jacob's Ladder, Grade 4 (2nd ed.).

Each set of student workbooks includes 5 student booklets, divided by grade level and area of emphasis (short stories, poetry, nonfiction). Corresponding to the activities in Jacob's Ladder, Grade 4