A Closer Look: Structured Literacy and Science of Reading Compared

Importance of Understanding Structured Literacy vs Science of Reading

Structured literacy vs science of reading is a hot topic among parents who want the best for their children's reading development. Both approaches are crucial, but they differ in key areas. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Structured Literacy: Involves explicit, systematic teaching of reading skills like phonics, phonemic awareness, and comprehension.
• Science of Reading: A broad body of research that informs effective reading instruction methods, combining insights from cognitive science, psychology, and education.

Understanding these differences can help you choose the right tools and methods for your child’s reading success.

Learning to read is no easy feat, especially for children with challenges like dyslexia or ADHD. According to David Kilpatrick, “We TEACH reading in different ways; they LEARN to read proficiently in only one way.” This highlights the significance of choosing the right approach.

I’m Jen Jones, an educator with over 30 years of experience in literacy instruction. My work focuses on integrating practical, research-backed strategies to help children read successfully. I've seen how structured literacy vs science of reading impacts learning.

Structured literacy vs science of reading basics: - what is structured literacy - what is literacy instruction - elements of structured literacy

Understanding Structured Literacy

Structured literacy is a teaching approach that is systematic, explicit, and cumulative. It focuses on several key components essential for reading development: phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. Let's break down these elements and how they fit into structured literacy.

Phonology

Phonology is the study of sounds in a language. In structured literacy, students are taught to recognize and manipulate the sounds in words. This includes skills like blending sounds to form words and segmenting words into individual sounds.

Example: A teacher might say, "Let's break the word cat into its sounds: /k/ /a/ /t/." This helps students understand how sounds combine to form words.

Morphology

Morphology involves the study of the structure of words, including root words, prefixes, and suffixes. Understanding morphology helps students decode and spell words more efficiently by recognizing patterns and building a larger vocabulary.

Example: Teaching the root word play and then adding different suffixes like -ing (playing) or -ed (played) to show how words change.

Syntax

Syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create sentences. In structured literacy, students learn the rules of sentence structure, which helps in understanding and constructing meaningful sentences.

Example: Students might practice forming sentences by arranging word cards in the correct order: "The cat is on the mat."

Semantics

Semantics is the study of meaning in language. It involves understanding the meaning of words, phrases, and sentences. Structured literacy ensures that students not only decode words but also comprehend their meanings and how they fit into context.

Example: Discussing the meaning of the word bark in different contexts: "The dog's bark" vs. "The tree's bark."

Explicit Instruction

In structured literacy, explicit instruction means that skills and concepts are taught clearly and directly by the teacher. This involves modeling, guided practice, and independent practice.

Example: A teacher might demonstrate how to decode a word, then guide students through the process, and finally have them practice independently.

Systematic Approach

Structured literacy follows a systematic approach where skills are taught in a logical order, starting with the simplest concepts and gradually moving to more complex ones. This ensures that students build on their knowledge step-by-step.

Example: Beginning with letter sounds, moving to blending sounds into words, and then progressing to more complex phonics patterns.

Cumulative Learning

Cumulative learning means that new skills build on previously learned ones. This ensures that students reinforce their knowledge and make connections between different concepts.

Example: After learning short vowel sounds, students might move on to long vowel sounds, using their prior knowledge to understand the new concept.

Structured literacy is a comprehensive approach that integrates all these components to provide a solid foundation for reading. By focusing on explicit, systematic, and cumulative instruction, it ensures that all students, especially those with learning challenges, can become proficient readers.

This approach is particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties, but it is effective for all learners. The key is its evidence-based methodology, which aligns closely with the science of reading.

In the next section, we'll explore the science of reading in more detail and how it informs effective reading instruction methods.

Exploring the Science of Reading

The science of reading is a comprehensive body of research that digs into how the human brain learns to read. This research spans multiple disciplines, including neuroscience, cognitive science, and psychology, to provide a thorough understanding of the reading process. Let's break down the key components involved in the science of reading: neuroscience, cognitive science, phonics, comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary.

Neuroscience

Neuroscience plays a crucial role in understanding how the brain processes written language. Studies have identified specific brain regions involved in reading, such as the left hemisphere's occipital-temporal area, which is integral for recognizing word forms. This research helps explain why some children struggle with reading and informs effective instructional methods.

Example: Research has shown that students with dyslexia have different brain activation patterns compared to typical readers. This insight has led to targeted interventions that can help rewire the brain for better reading outcomes.

Cognitive Science

Cognitive science examines the mental processes involved in reading, such as attention, memory, and problem-solving. Understanding these cognitive processes helps educators develop strategies that support reading development.

Example: Cognitive load theory suggests that breaking down reading tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can help students process information more effectively. This is especially useful for students with ADHD who may struggle with sustained attention.

Phonics

Phonics is a foundational element in the science of reading. It involves teaching the relationship between sounds and their corresponding letters or letter groups. Phonics instruction is essential for decoding words and is particularly beneficial for early readers and those with learning differences.

Example: The Orton-Gillingham approach, a well-known phonics-based method, uses multi-sensory techniques to teach reading and spelling simultaneously. This approach has been highly effective for students with dyslexia.

Comprehension

Reading comprehension involves understanding and interpreting the meaning of text. Effective reading instruction must go beyond decoding to include strategies for building vocabulary and background knowledge, which are essential for comprehension.

Example: Teaching students to summarize, synthesize, and infer information from texts helps improve their comprehension skills. Programs that focus on these strategies, alongside decoding, provide a balanced approach to reading instruction.

Fluency

Fluency is the ability to read text accurately, quickly, and with proper expression. It bridges the gap between word recognition and comprehension, allowing students to focus on understanding the text rather than decoding each word.

Example: Repeated reading exercises, where students read the same passage multiple times, can help improve fluency. This practice builds automaticity in word recognition, freeing up cognitive resources for comprehension.

Vocabulary

A robust vocabulary is essential for reading comprehension. Students need to understand the meanings of words to make sense of what they read. Vocabulary instruction should be explicit and integrated into reading lessons.

Example: Direct instruction of vocabulary words before reading a text helps students understand and retain new words. This can be done through activities like word mapping and using the words in different contexts.

The science of reading provides a research-based framework for effective reading instruction. By incorporating insights from neuroscience, cognitive science, and evidence-based practices like phonics and comprehension strategies, educators can support all students in becoming proficient readers.

In the next section, we'll compare structured literacy and the science of reading, examining their key differences and how they can complement each other in educational settings.

When comparing structured literacy vs science of reading, it's important to understand that while they are closely related, they are not the same. Each has unique features and applications that make them distinct yet complementary.

Instructional Methods

Structured Literacy: This approach is characterized by explicit, systematic, and sequential instruction. Teachers guide students through a carefully planned sequence of skills, ensuring mastery of each before moving on. Techniques include direct teaching, modeling, guided practice, and immediate feedback.

Science of Reading: The science of reading encompasses a broader range of instructional methods informed by research in neuroscience, cognitive science, and education. It emphasizes evidence-based practices like phonics, comprehension strategies, and fluency exercises but does not prescribe a specific instructional method.

Research Basis

Structured Literacy: The foundation of structured literacy lies in decades of research on effective reading instruction, especially for students with dyslexia. Programs like Orton-Gillingham are prime examples, aligning with standards set by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA).

Science of Reading: This is a comprehensive body of research that integrates findings from multiple disciplines, including psychology, cognitive science, and linguistics. It aims to understand how reading works, why some children struggle, and what instructional practices are most effective.

Application

Structured Literacy: This method is particularly effective for students with learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD. It is also beneficial for general education settings, providing a strong foundation in reading skills for all students. Programs designed to meet diverse needs across different grade levels can be highly effective.

Science of Reading: The principles derived from the science of reading can be applied across various instructional methods and curricula. It informs the development of reading programs and interventions, ensuring they are grounded in scientific evidence.

Target Audience

Structured Literacy: While it benefits all students, structured literacy is essential for those with language-based learning disabilities. Its explicit and systematic nature ensures that no student is left behind, making it a critical approach in special education.

Science of Reading: This research benefits a wide range of educational stakeholders, including curriculum developers, teachers, and policymakers. It provides a framework for understanding effective reading instruction, applicable to all students but particularly valuable for those who struggle with reading.

Summary

Structured literacy is an instructional approach rooted in the science of reading. It offers a clear, systematic method for teaching reading, especially to students with learning differences. On the other hand, the science of reading provides the research foundation that supports various instructional methods, including structured literacy.

In the next section, we'll explore how structured literacy and the science of reading can complement each other, enhancing educational outcomes for all students.

How Structured Literacy and Science of Reading Complement Each Other

When it comes to structured literacy vs science of reading, it's not about choosing one over the other. Instead, it's about understanding how they can work together to improve reading instruction and outcomes for all students.

Integration

Structured Literacy is grounded in the Science of Reading. The science of reading provides the research base, while structured literacy translates this research into actionable teaching strategies. For example, structured literacy programs like Orton-Gillingham use multi-sensory techniques that align with the cognitive science principles outlined in the science of reading.

Teaching Strategies

Structured Literacy employs explicit, systematic, and sequential instruction. Teachers model skills, guide practice, and provide immediate feedback. This approach is highly effective for students with dyslexia and other learning differences.

Science of Reading supports these strategies by offering evidence-based practices. It emphasizes the importance of phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. By integrating these components, teachers can create a comprehensive reading program that meets the needs of all students.

Educational Outcomes

Research shows that structured literacy can significantly improve reading outcomes, especially for struggling readers. A study by the National Reading Panel found that systematic phonics instruction is more effective than non-systematic or no phonics instruction.

Science of Reading research supports these findings, highlighting the importance of explicit instruction in foundational reading skills. By combining the structured approach of structured literacy with the broad research base of the science of reading, educators can improve reading proficiency across diverse student populations.

Phonics Emphasis

Phonics is a cornerstone of both structured literacy and the science of reading. Structured literacy programs like Orton-Gillingham place a strong emphasis on phonics, ensuring that students master the relationship between sounds and letters.

The Science of Reading underscores the importance of phonics in early reading instruction. It shows that phonics instruction helps students decode words, leading to better reading fluency and comprehension. By emphasizing phonics, both approaches ensure that students build a solid foundation in reading.

In summary, structured literacy and the science of reading are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they complement each other, offering a powerful combination of research-based strategies and practical teaching methods. This synergy can lead to improved educational outcomes for all students, particularly those with learning differences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Structured Literacy and Science of Reading

Is Structured Literacy the Same as Orton-Gillingham?

No, but they are closely related. Structured Literacy is an umbrella term that encompasses various instructional approaches, including Orton-Gillingham (OG). OG is a specific, well-known method within the structured literacy framework. It uses multi-sensory techniques and focuses on explicit, direct instruction in phonics, phonemic awareness, and other foundational reading skills. Structured literacy, however, includes other methods and programs that also align with the principles of the science of reading.

How Does Structured Literacy Support Students with Dyslexia?

Structured Literacy is particularly effective for students with dyslexia. Here's why:

• Explicit Instruction: Skills are taught directly and clearly, ensuring that students understand each concept before moving on.
• Systematic and Cumulative Approach: Lessons build on previously learned skills, which helps students make connections and retain information.
• Multi-Sensory Techniques: Engaging multiple senses (seeing, hearing, touching) helps reinforce learning and makes it easier for dyslexic students to grasp complex concepts.
• Continuous Assessment: Teachers regularly monitor progress and adjust instruction based on student needs.

According to the International Dyslexia Association, structured literacy is one of the most effective ways to teach students with dyslexia because it addresses their unique learning challenges.

What Are the Main Criticisms of the Science of Reading?

While the Science of Reading is widely supported by research, it does face some criticisms:

1. Implementation Variability: Critics argue that the principles of the science of reading are not always implemented consistently across different classrooms and schools. This can lead to mixed results.
2. Overemphasis on Phonics: Some educators believe that an overemphasis on phonics might neglect other important aspects of reading, such as comprehension and a love of reading.
3. Resource Intensive: Implementing a science of reading approach can require significant resources, including teacher training and specialized materials, which may not be available in all schools.

Despite these criticisms, the science of reading remains a robust, evidence-based framework for understanding how reading works and how best to teach it. It emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach that includes phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension to develop proficient readers.

Next, we'll dive into how these effective reading strategies can be implemented in schools to benefit all students.

Implementing Effective Reading Strategies in Schools

Curriculum Development

Creating a curriculum rooted in structured literacy and the science of reading is crucial. This curriculum should be explicit, systematic, and cumulative. It should cover all foundational skills: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Schools might consider adopting programs that align with these principles.

Key Components: - Explicit Instruction: Directly teach each concept. - Systematic Approach: Follow a logical sequence. - Cumulative Learning: Build on previously learned skills.

Teacher Training

Teachers are the backbone of successful reading instruction. Providing them with comprehensive training is essential. Programs like those offered by Hello Decodables ensure educators are well-versed in structured literacy and the science of reading.

Essential Training Areas: - Phonics Instruction: Understanding sound-letter relationships. - Multi-Sensory Techniques: Engaging multiple senses in learning. - Assessment and Data Use: Using data to guide instruction.

Student Assessment

Regular assessment helps tailor instruction to meet each student's needs. Assessments should be both formative and summative, providing insights into student progress and areas needing improvement.

Assessment Strategies: - Screening: Early identification of reading difficulties. - Progress Monitoring: Regular checks to ensure students are on track. - Diagnostic Assessments: Detailed evaluations to pinpoint specific challenges.

Hello Decodables

At Hello Decodables, we support schools and teachers in transitioning to structured literacy. Our services include professional development, model lesson demonstrations, and literacy curriculum assessments.

Our Offerings: - In-Person and Virtual Training: Flexible options to meet your needs. - Model Lessons: Demonstrations of effective teaching strategies. - Data Reviews: Helping schools use data to improve instruction.

Implementing these strategies can transform reading instruction, making it effective for all students, especially those with learning differences. By focusing on structured literacy and the science of reading, schools can ensure that every child has the opportunity to become a proficient reader.

Conclusion

Future of Reading Education

The future of reading education looks promising with the growing adoption of structured literacy and the science of reading. As more schools and districts accept these evidence-based practices, we expect to see significant improvements in literacy rates. For instance, Mississippi's success story, where 97% of districts improved third-grade reading scores, showcases the transformative power of these approaches.

Importance of Evidence-Based Practices

Evidence-based practices are crucial in reading education. They ensure that teaching methods are grounded in scientific research rather than anecdotal evidence or tradition. For example, the science of reading provides a comprehensive understanding of how the brain processes written words, guiding educators to use the most effective strategies. When we focus on what works—like explicit phonics instruction and systematic, cumulative learning—we can bridge the literacy gap, especially for underprivileged students.

Hello Decodables

At Hello Decodables, we are committed to supporting educators and students in this journey. Our phonics-based decodable books are designed to align with the science of reading, ensuring that children receive structured, systematic instruction that builds their reading skills step-by-step.

Our Unique Approach: - Aligned with Science of Reading: Our materials are based on proven research, ensuring effective literacy instruction. - Systematic and Explicit: We provide resources that follow a logical sequence, making learning cumulative and manageable for students. - Support for Educators: We offer professional development and model lessons to help teachers implement these strategies effectively.

By integrating structured literacy and the science of reading into our educational systems, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to become a proficient reader. The future of reading education is bright, and with the right tools and practices, we can make a lasting impact on students' lives.

For more information on how Hello Decodables can support your school's literacy efforts, visit our guide to decodable books.