How the “Science of Reading” promotes mastery of this critical life skill
Literacy is the cornerstone of academic achievement, career success and lifelong learning. Yet, despite its undeniable importance, access to quality reading education remains inequitable, plagued by systemic issues and barriers that can hinder educational opportunities. In many cases, a student’s success is determined by the school they attend or who governs their school board.
But reading is not merely a skill: It is a fundamental right every citizen deserves, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status or individual challenges. Fortunately, Canadian schools recognize the gaps and are taking steps to foster a system that provides equitable support for all students.
Understanding the “Science of Reading”
The “Science of Reading” refers to a body of research about reading and issues related to reading and writing, according to The Reading League, a nonprofit that has championed this approach. Many districts in Canada have adopted this approach. For example, New Brunswick debuted a curriculum in September 2023, “Building Blocks of Reading,” which replaced a focus on “balanced literacy.”
Ontario will also implement a “back to basics” effort across schools in response to the 2022 Ontario Human Rights Commission’s “Right to Read” report that identified imperatives for supporting all students in developing critical reading skills.
The report lists conditions that lead to success, starting with: “Curriculum and instruction that reflects the scientific research on the best approaches to teach word reading.”
The Science of Reading isn’t an individual program, but rather an approach to teaching literacy that considers decades of research demonstrating how children best learn to read.
According to the “Right to Read” report, the Science of Reading comprises collective research into “how reading skills develop and how to ensure the highest degree of success in teaching all children to read. The Science of Reading includes results from thousands of peer-reviewed studies and meta-analyses that use rigorous scientific methods.” This body of research includes expertise from education, psychology, cognitive science and other fields.
A key component of the Science of Reading is phonics—not merely memorization, but also learning how to decode words by sounding out individual letters and letter combinations. Many schools, including those in Ontario, have used the “three cueing” system, which encourages children to guess at words based on context. Further research has found that the “three cueing” approach isn’t as successful as originally thought, according to the “Right to Read” report.
How can educators help their students flourish?
The right curriculum is just one piece of the puzzle. Educators need resources to help students gain reading fluency and comprehension so they can succeed in school and beyond.
Here are six best practices that can contribute to better outcomes in your district:
1. Understand the systemic issues that can hinder education
The “Right to Read” report found that, in particular, First Nation, Métis and Inuit youth experience unique challenges and barriers. For example, many may have family members who have unsupported learning disabilities. The report also found evidence of marginalized students not receiving appropriate interventions for their reading challenges. Recognizing these differences is the first step in combating them.
2. Use technology as appropriate
Adaptive technology can help assess students’ literacy levels and offer real-time insights into the optimal personalized learning paths for each student. Students learn in different ways and at different rates, so customized support can help each child develop and keep them challenged and engaged.
3. Screen children early and consistently
Universal screening is an equitable way to ensure that reading difficulties, such as dyslexia, are caught early, allowing for timely interventions for students at risk. Children who receive adequate support build skills at their own pace, contributing to a sense of accomplishment while nurturing self-confidence. Communication with caregivers ensures they recognize their role as partners in their child’s academic success and embrace the benefits of early support.
Ontario is leading the charge in this endeavor, administering standardized, evidence-based screening tools to every student twice a year from kindergarten to grade 2. The aimswebPlus Canadian Edition has been approved by the Ministry of Ontario as an early-reading screening tool as part of the Early Reading Screening Tools Agreement.
4. Embrace a multidisciplinary approach
Schools can tap specialists throughout the system to create an integrated team where each person plays a role in the assessment and intervention process. The classroom educator is the fulcrum, involving specialists such as psychologists, speech-language pathologists, reading specialists and educational diagnosticians as appropriate.
5. Offer ample professional development
Educators are naturally curious and eager to help their students succeed, yet launching a new program can be daunting. Empower classroom teachers by giving them the support they need to master an updated curriculum. Assure them that leaders and peers alike are there to support the endeavor.
6. Stay updated on best practices
One of the tenets of the Science of Reading is that it is always evolving. Educators must continuously learn about the latest research that supports reading instruction and share it with their staff. They must also clearly communicate goals and benchmarks to caregivers and families to ensure all stakeholders understand the potential and opportunity in updated methods.
Reading achievement and proficiency as the foundation of success
It’s an exciting time in schools, as new curriculums and methods are unveiled with the goal of giving all children the same opportunity to thrive. By staying attuned to the most recent, science-backed developments, your school can foster an environment where all students have the opportunity to excel.
Need more information on helping students with reading challenges? Pearson’s Reading Comprehension Toolkit includes assessments and intervention resources that educators can use to help students overcome their reading challenges.