What Teachers Should Know About the Science of Reading

Updated: November 19, 2024

Education Week


Summary

The video delves into the science of reading, emphasizing the Simple View of Reading model, which connects reading comprehension to language comprehension and decoding abilities. It explores the critical concept of orthographic mapping in reading development, stressing the significance of phonology and orthography in reading instruction. The history of the reading wars, debates between phonics and whole word approaches, underscores the essential role of phonics in reading instruction. The discussion advocates for a stronger emphasis on phonics and systematic reading instruction in classrooms, pointing out the gap between research-based knowledge and teacher training programs.


Introduction

Introduction to the discussion about reading with Emily Hanford, the senior education correspondent for APMreports, and her radio documentary on early reading issues.

The Science of Reading

Exploration of the science of reading, including how skilled readers read words, how kids learn to read, and the extensive research conducted on reading over the past 50 years.

The Simple View of Reading

Explanation of the Simple View of Reading model, which states that reading comprehension is a product of language comprehension and decoding abilities.

Orthographic Mapping

Discussion on orthographic mapping as a critical concept in reading development, emphasizing the importance of phonology and orthography in reading instruction.

Reading Wars History

Brief history of the reading wars, including the debates between phonics and whole word approaches, leading to the current understanding of the essential role of phonics in reading instruction.

Balanced Literacy

Analysis of the concept of balanced literacy in classrooms, highlighting the need for a stronger emphasis on phonics and systematic reading instruction.

Teacher Preparation

Insights into teacher preparation programs and the gap between research-based knowledge on reading instruction and what teachers are taught in their training.


FAQ

Q: What is the Simple View of Reading model?

A: The Simple View of Reading model states that reading comprehension is a product of language comprehension and decoding abilities.

Q: What is orthographic mapping in the context of reading development?

A: Orthographic mapping is a critical concept in reading development that emphasizes the importance of phonology and orthography in reading instruction.

Q: Can you explain the reading wars mentioned in the file?

A: The reading wars refer to the historical debates between phonics and whole word approaches in reading instruction.

Q: What is the current understanding of the role of phonics in reading instruction?

A: The current understanding emphasizes the essential role of phonics in reading instruction.

Q: What is balanced literacy in classrooms?

A: Balanced literacy is an approach in classrooms that highlights the need for a stronger emphasis on phonics and systematic reading instruction.

Q: What is the gap mentioned between research-based knowledge on reading instruction and teacher preparation programs?

A: The gap refers to the disparity between what research advocates for in reading instruction and what teachers are taught in their training programs.

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