Learning to Read or Reading to Learn
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Learning to Read or Reading to Learn

In the world of early literacy education, there has long been a prevailing myth that young readers should start by learning to read and later transition to reading to learn. For decades, theories of children’s phases of reading acquisition oversimplified the process. So, the “learning to read” then “reading to learn” made sense. However, the…

A Straw Man Argument about the Science of Reading
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A Straw Man Argument about the Science of Reading

Reading Wars With decades of research, experience, and intelligent conversations, how are we still “at war” when it comes to reading? First I will say that I operate under the assumption that ALL teachers go into education to help students learn. Educators go to school to learn pedagogy, instructional practices, and the current research to…

The Phases of Reading Fluency: A Guide for Educators and Parents
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The Phases of Reading Fluency: A Guide for Educators and Parents

Introduction As educators and parents, we share the common goal of helping young learners become proficient readers. Reading fluency is the ability to read accurately, smoothly, and with understanding. It is a crucial milestone in a child’s reading journey. You might be surprised at the many layers and foundational skills that are required of readers…

Unlocking the Science of Reading: How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Reading
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Unlocking the Science of Reading: How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Reading

As the summer months approach, parents often wonder how they can support their child’s reading progress during the break from school. The science of reading provides valuable insights into the foundational skills necessary for reading success. By understanding the importance of phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, parents can empower their children to become…

Structured Literacy Instruction
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Structured Literacy Instruction

Structured literacy is getting a lot of well-deserved attention. Researchers in the areas of reading, psychology, speech and language pathology, neuroscience, and education all agree. Although there may be more than one way to TEACH reading, there is only one way that the human brain LEARNS to read. The majority of students learn to read…

Decodable Books- What are they and why should we use them?
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Decodable Books- What are they and why should we use them?

The debate is over. Reading words by attending to all of the letter-sound correspondences is how our brain learns to read efficiently. This is not new science, nor is it a pendulum. This is over 40 years of research. The science tells us that students need to focus on the letter-sound correspondences (word reading) to…

What is Orton Gillingham?
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What is Orton Gillingham?

Orton Gillingham is not a program. It is an approach to teaching literacy in a direct, explicit, multisensory, structured, sequential, diagnostic, and prescriptive manner. Educators most often use this approach to support students who struggle with reading and spelling. WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF ORTON GILLINGHAM?: The name “Orton Gillingham” comes from two pioneers of…