> Science of Reading Literacy Block, a resource to help you plan your literacy block in a science of reading classroom. This collection of resources explores the Science of Reading in education, with a focus on developments in 2023 and 2024. Articles discuss the growing emphasis">> Science of Reading Literacy Block, a resource to help you plan your literacy block in a science of reading classroom. This collection of resources explores the Science of Reading in education, with a focus on developments in 2023 and 2024. Articles discuss the growing emphasis"> 5 Must-Read Science of Reading Resources (2024) - Spiral Warmups
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5 Must-Read Science of Reading Resources (2024)

I think by now the buzz has worn off – Science of Reading is now an established concept in teaching English Language Arts and Reading. Established, but not fully-understood and not without debate. So let’s dig into 5 must-see resources to further our professional knowledge of the science of reading in 2024.

Read Also >> Science of Reading Literacy Block, a resource to help you plan your literacy block in a science of reading classroom.

This collection of resources explores the Science of Reading in education, with a focus on developments in 2023 and 2024. Articles discuss the growing emphasis on implementing these principles in schools (e.g., teacher training, state initiatives) and the positive impact it can have on student literacy. Research and analysis explore the effectiveness of reading laws and how to navigate misinformation surrounding the Science of Reading approach.

Here are key takeaways:

  • There’s a growing focus on implementing the Science of Reading in elementary education.
  • Teacher training and clear state initiatives are crucial for successful implementation.
  • Collaboration and evidence-based practices are essential to combat misinformation.

1. Where Is Motivation in the Science of Reading?

This (non peer-reviewed) article is an opinion piece expressing the view that science of reading is currently being implemented without regard to student motivation to read. The authors reiterate the fact that science of reading is based on a large body of research. However, their concern is with the implementation of this research in policies and classrooms.

Read the full article here >>

2. Maximize Literacy in 2024: Find What’s Missing from the Science of Reading in Elementary Education

This blog post from kidsreadnow.org highlights the importance of a comprehensive Science of Reading approach in elementary education. It argues that focusing solely on phonics and word recognition misses a crucial element: language comprehension.

Here are 4 key points:

  1. Fall benchmark data offers a chance to evaluate the effectiveness of your Science of Reading implementation, ensuring it benefits all students.
  2. While phonics is essential, neglecting language comprehension limits the positive impact of the Science of Reading.
  3. The Reading Rope metaphor emphasizes the importance of both word recognition and language comprehension for strong reading skills.
  4. Teacher preparation programs often fall short in comprehensively covering all five components of effective reading instruction, hindering successful Science of Reading implementation.

Read the full blog post here >>

3. Design and Methodology in the Science of Reading

This 2023 article was published in The Reading League Journal and questions the methods of the “scientifically-based” research used to gather evidence of the science of reading. If you’re interested in the research and an honest examination of how the research is conducted, this article is for you. You will walk away for a researcher’s view of how we study the topic of, how children learn to read for understanding.

Read the full PDF article here >>

Keep reading below, but also know, you can read more great research-based reading instruction resources.

4. States Need to Strengthen Reading Instruction Policies

This is a USA article, but the policy points are applicable internationally.

This text highlights a new report by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) that argues states are neglecting a key factor in improving literacy rates: effective teachers.

“Estimates suggest that with effective reading instruction, more than 90 percent of students would learn to read—meaning that every year nearly 1 million additional students would enter fourth grade as skilled readers.”

Heather Peske, NCTQ President

The report outlines five policy actions states can take to strengthen teachers’ reading instruction, emphasizing the importance of well-prepared educators in achieving positive student outcomes.

Read the full report here >>

5. To Support the Science of Reading, Replace Disinformation with Collaboration

Finally, our 5th must-read resource will be applicable to any school that works with PLC (professional learning communities). This resource promotes the concept of shared learning for the professionals. The author warns against politicizing the science of reading, or any instructional practice. Instead, we should collaboratively analyze our practices to ensure continual growth of teachers and students.

The author, Kari Kurto, uses her own journey as evidence for her point of view.

The author describes their journey from teaching students with dyslexia at a specialized school to becoming passionate about the Science of Reading. Despite not learning it in their teacher training program, they actively sought out training in explicit and systematic language instruction. Witnessing its success with teenagers who previously struggled, the author developed a deep belief in its power and a mission to empower other educators with this knowledge.

Read the full article here >>

More Science of Reading Resources

  • Barber A.T., Klauda S.L. (2020). How reading motivation and engagement enable reading achievement: Policy implications. Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 7 (1), 27–34.
  • Catts H.W. (2018). The simple view of reading: Advancements and false impressions. Remedial and Special Education, 39 (5), 317–323.
  • Levine, K. (2022). Increasing Reading Proficiency Through Building Knowledge in the Science of Reading. Fordham University ProQuest Dissertations Publishing,  2022. 29169238.

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