Using a Comprehensive Core Reading Program Which is Based Upon Evidence-Based Practices
Key Concepts
Teaching reading is very complex.
“Teaching reading is rocket science” (Louisa C. Moats, 1999). The English written language is very difficult to teach and requires strategic planning, guided by a scientific knowledge base. A researched-based core reading program is a valuable tool for teachers, as it provides a sequence of skills to be taught and strategies to effectively teach these skills in order to maximize student learning.
Use a comprehensive core program that is research-based.
Before selecting a core reading program, schools should take the time to review core programs to ensure they explicitly teach the five big ideas of reading and have evidence of success in experimental studies. No one program will teach all children to read. However, a research-based core program should enable at least 80% of your students to meet grade level reading standards.
Provide at least 90 minutes of uninterrupted reading instruction using the core reading program to all students.
Research shows that students need a minimum of 90 minutes of uninterrupted reading instruction with the core reading program. Providing at least 90 minutes of instruction gives students the best opportunity to receive instruction on basic skills they need to be successful readers. The 90-minute reading block must be uninterrupted, meaning there should be no assemblies, lunch count, attendance count, recess, etc., that would interfere with instruction during that time.
Use the core reading program with fidelity.
Fidelity is often misinterpreted as meaning a teacher must follow every step of each lesson in the teacher’s manual of the reading program. But instead, fidelity means providing explicit instruction on the five big ideas of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension and vocabulary. After reviewing your school’s core reading program and analyzing student data, schools may need to supplement the core program with other strategies and/or materials in order to make the instruction more explicit in teaching the five big ideas of reading.
Using a common core reading program is beneficial to teachers and students.
Ideally, all teachers in a school should use the same core reading program. Using a common core program provides students a consistent method or approach to reading. Communication among teachers increases because teachers within and across grades can use common language when planning and problem-solving.
Receive ongoing professional development on the core reading program.
It is critical that teachers and other school staff such as the principal and educational assistants receive training on how to use the core reading program with fidelity. This includes becoming familiar with the core program’s structure and design, patterns of instruction, and universal access materials. School staff should receive ongoing training and feedback on instruction throughout the school year. Such ongoing training and feedback will increase teachers’ confidence, maintain the fidelity of the program, and improve student achievement.
Professional Development Presentation
- Part 1 (14:08)
Selecting an effective Core Reading Program is one of the foundations of a strong schoolwide literacy model. This presentation will familiarize your staff with critical elements to look for when evaluating Core Reading Programs and selecting the one that best meets the needs of 80% of your students. Tools and resources that are available to help with your evaluation and selection are shared.
Apply the Concepts
Practice Activities
1. Reviewing Core Reading Programs
Individually write down what your school is using as their core reading program and then discuss answers in small groups. Next, review the Consumer’s Guide to Selecting a Core Reading Program and discuss why this tool would be beneficial for your school to use.
2. Benefits of Using a Reading Program
Watch the Dr. Reid Lyon video on the benefits of a reading program. As you are watching, write down 3 reasons why schools should use a core reading program. After viewing the video discuss in small groups what you wrote.
Resources
1. Consumer’s Guide to Evaluating a Core Reading Program Grade K-3: A Critical Elements Analysis
When your school is in the process of adopting a core reading program it is important to make sure the reading program is scientifically-based, teaches the essential elements of reading, and will meet the needs of your school’s students. Use this tool to evaluate the strengths and weakness of core reading programs and guide you tin selecting the best reading program for your school.
2. Critical Components of Core Reading Instruction
This PowerPoint presentation is an excellent guide to refer to when your school is selecting a core reading program. It tells schools what critical components to look for in a core reading program. In addition, this presentation provides a detailed example of how to use the Consumer’s Guide to evaluate a core reading program.
3. Introduction to the School-wide Model
This document contains a very clear description of the different instructional programs (e.g. Core, Supplemental, Intervention) as well as other critical elements of instruction including, time, grouping, and instructional adjustments. Use this resource to gain a better understanding of what a core reading program is.
Links
1. Oregon Reading First Curriculum Review
The Oregon Reading First Center Review of Comprehensive Reading Programs provides a thorough and objective review of nine core reading program. Your school can use this as a guide when selecting a core reading program.
2. Schoolwide Reading Model: The 90-Minute Reading Block
Your school wants to establish 90-minute reading blocks but are unsure how to organize that time. These PowerPoint presentations, from four different elementary schools, provide excellent examples of what a 90-minute reading block should include. Use these presentations to help your school design a 90-minute reading schedule.
