What is Structured Literacy?
Structured Literacy is a proven instructional methodology that is based on the Science of Reading. It is sequential, systematic, explicit instruction of phonics. This means that students are given the tools they need to decode words (phonics) in a specific sequence in order to build a solid foundation. Each concept is explained as they are taught so students have a full understanding of the rules (and broken rules) of the English language, and develop confidence to be able to READ rather than memorize words on the page.
How does it work?
We assess each student to determine where there are gaps in their reading foundation, and then we work to fill them in. Students are then placed within our program where it makes sense for them to start. Our program begins with the “Roots” - basic foundational level concepts that students need to know in order to start building a solid reading foundation to build on - these are the sounds that short vowels make, and the ability to blend CVC words. Once they can do that confidently and fluently, we can begin to take them on their journey up the Literacy Tree, mastering each concept, through The Climb, and then, when they are ready, to fill in the Missing Links - confidently identifying vowel teams and syllable types.
We assess our students several times throughout their journey, to ensure they are making the progress we expect them to. Our students make quick progress, often jumping 3 grade levels in just weeks, because our scientifically proven method works. Not only do students finally read on grade level - they now understand our language better than most of their peers, and have a strong foundation to build on as they progress through school and life.
Why is this approach different?
Most school districts still utilize a “balanced literacy” approach to reading, writing and spelling. Phonics is introduced but paired with Whole Language literacy - which basically teaches students to memorize word formations, and sight words and guess based on context and pictorial clues. Students are left with no guidance as to how to really decode and encode words that are unfamiliar to them. They have also developed poor habits, and have low confidence to be able to read independently because they are stuck guessing rather than applying the concepts they should understand.
Structured Literacy is a proven, scientific approach that gives students the tools they need to really understand the intricacies of the English language.