The Simple View of Reading:
A Proven Framework for Literacy Success
To ensure all students have the best chance to succeed, school administrators must adopt an evidence-based and inclusive reading instruction methodology. As a result, Structured Literacy stands out as the approach every school should consider.
Structured Literacy is built on the Simple View of Reading, a framework developed in the 1980s that remains foundational in reading science today. This approach isn’t just a trend or a fad—it’s a time-tested, scientific method ensuring comprehensive and effective reading instruction.
Simple View of Reading (the WHAT)
x
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Reading Comprehension
(RC)
The Simple View of Reading emphasizes reading comprehension is the product of two essential components: Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Both are critical. If a student struggles with either, their overall reading ability suffers. Therefore, both elements must be incorporated into your school’s literacy program to achieve equitable instruction and ensure skilled reading.
- Word Recognition is the ability for students to recognize words accurately and instantly. This foundational skill allows students to read fluently without hesitation, setting the stage for deeper comprehension.
- Language Comprehension is understanding the meaning of sentences and texts. It involves interpreting the words recognized and constructing meaning through listening or reading.
When these two elements are effectively taught through explicit, systematic, cumulative, multisensory, and responsive instruction, students are not just learning to read; they are learning to understand, engage, and thrive academically.
Some specific literacy skills crucial within this framework and particularly relevant include:
Oracy: The development of speaking and listening skills, which are foundational for reading and writing. Strong oracy skills enhance students' ability to engage in language-rich classroom discussions and build comprehension through active listening.
Phonemic Awareness: This is the understanding that words comprise individual sounds (phonemes). It’s a critical skill for developing word recognition and for students to decode new words.
Vocabulary Development: Expanding a student’s word knowledge is key to understanding complex texts. A robust vocabulary allows students to connect new and known concepts, vital for language comprehension.
Fluency: The ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression. Fluency bridges word recognition and comprehension, enabling students to focus on understanding the text rather than decoding each word.
Incorporating Structured Literacy into your school’s curriculum is a commitment to proven methods and a step toward fostering accurate educational equity. It ensures every student, no matter their background or challenges, has the opportunity to become a confident, skilled reader. Lexia offers evidenced-based, professional development and instructional literacy programs that ensure every teacher and student receives the learning support they deserve. As you consider how to implement Structured Literacy in your school, use the following checklist to confirm your instructional practices align with these proven principles.
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