Science of Reading Resource Library
Develop your knowledge of the science of reading and how to teach all students to be strong readers.
The Science of Reading, Explained
The Definition of the Science of Reading
Developed by the Defining Movement coalition
The Science of Reading is a vast, interdisciplinary body of scientifically-based research about reading and issues related to reading and writing.
This research has been conducted over the last five decades across the world, and it is derived from thousands of studies conducted in multiple languages. The science of reading has culminated in a preponderance of evidence to inform how proficient reading and writing develop; why some have difficulty; and how we can most effectively assess and teach and, therefore, improve student outcomes through prevention of and intervention for reading difficulties.
Must-Watch Webinars & Videos
Adapting Instruction for Students with Word Reading Difficulties When Teaching Remotely
Advice from Dr. Anita Archer
Author and beloved teacher of teachers, Dr. Anita Archer, shares how to adapt the evidence-based practices you rely on in the classroom to a remote environment. From partner response to building community, this four-part video series can be watched in under an hour but will provide a wealth of practical advice.
Each video is accompanied by a tip sheet to help you implement the practices Dr. Archer recommends.
Master the Science of Reading in CORE’s Online Elementary Reading Academy
Learn foundational skills and instructional practices grounded in the science of reading. Based on the best of CORE’s nationally acclaimed Teaching Reading Sourcebook, this facilitated seven-module asynchronous online course teaches the essential components of reading instruction with clear and explicit teaching models.
Support the Science of Reading with Structured Literacy
This science-based instructional approach combines six key elements to help all students, including those struggling with dyslexia, become skilled readers. Learn more about the components of structured literacy and compare it to other typical literacy practices used in schools in this report by Louise Spear-Swerling.
What Teachers of Reading Should Know and Be Able to Do
Although educators have long understood the importance of literacy, teaching children to read is very complex. Evidence to guide instructional practice is stronger than it has ever been. In this report, Dr. Louisa C. Moats outline why the preparation and professional development of teachers must be better aligned with decades of reading science.
Read Up on the Science of Reading
Examining the Balance of Literacy Instruction
Effective literacy instruction includes both code-based and meaning-based instruction. This infographic from Philadelphia Read by 4th outlines the components of effective reading instruction and the essential knowledge base about reading that teachers must have. Download the Infographic >>
What the Words Say
A false assumption about what it takes to be a skilled reader has created deep inequalities among U.S. children, putting many on a difficult path in life. Keep reading >>
The Biggest Threat to Our Democracy: Illiteracy and the Science-Deniers Who Contribute to It
It turns out that we know exactly why Johnny can’t read. However, instead of using the brain science and overwhelming research consensus, we’re still using strategies that reflect our own biases and theories. Keep reading >>
Is It Ever Too Late to Teach an Older Struggling Reader?
Unfortunately, there are large numbers of adolescent students in our country who cannot read proficiently. So why do we find teachers so often give up on directly addressing the reading needs of older struggling readers and focus instead solely on providing accommodations? Keep reading >>
Lucy Calkins’ Criticism of Reading First is Misinformed
Recently, there have been many responses to Lucy Calkins’ essay, “No One Gets to Own the Term, Science of Reading.” Interestingly, none address Calkins’ inaccurate attack on the Reading First initiative. Keep reading >>
Lucy Calkins on the ‘Science of Reading.’ Seriously.
I left graduate school fully convinced that this as axiomatic: The road to reading is paved on a foundation of meaning. I was wrong. Keep reading >>
“I’m Mad as Hell and I’m Not Going to Take This Anymore”
Once again, the reading science deniers disparage those of us in the reading research community who accept the settled science on teaching reading by implying all we care about is phonics. Keep reading >>
It’s time to stop debating how to teach kids to read and follow the evidence
The debate — often called the “reading wars” — is generally framed as a battle between two distinct views. On one side are those who advocate for an intensive emphasis on phonics and on the other side are proponents of approaches that put a stronger emphasis on understanding meaning, with some sporadic phonics mixed in. Keep reading >>
Taking a Critical Look at Teachers College Units of Study
Is Lucy Calkins’ reading program, Teachers College Units of Study, an effective literacy approach for all students? A team of experts reviewed the research, and here’s what they concluded.
Professional Learning in the Science of Reading
CORE’s reading, writing and language professional learning services provide preK-12 schools with a framework to implement and ensure the consistent used of evidence-based reading and writing instructional strategies based on the science of reading. Work with CORE to build and sustain knowledge and skills through well-structured courses, coaching, modeling and mentoring. Courses and other professional learning support can be offered online or in person.
Third Party Studies Finds that CORE Professional Learning Leads to Reading Gains
When SEG Measurement reviewed the reading performance of Pajaro Valley Unified School District (CA) first, second and third grade students in classrooms with teachers who participated in CORE professional development, they found that these students achieved significantly greater growth in reading skills. Review the reports to learn more.
States Must Support the Four Pillars to Reading Success
The path to literacy is supported by many actors, but states play a large role in ensuring students are taught to read using the most effective instructional methods. The National Council on Teacher Quality has released this detailed guide that outlines the four actions states must take in order to support reading success for all students. The guide also includes a list of 13 essential aspects every elementary teacher should know about reading instruction.
CORE’s president, Linda Diamond, was one of the team of reading experts that contributed to the action guide. This guide is an invaluable resource for states and districts as they strive to ensure all teachers have essential knowledge of the science of reading and how to teach students to read.
From the Experts at EdWeek …
Join CORE in following along with EdWeek’s Getting Reading Right special report.