#9: The Easiest Way to Boost Reading Growth
Many students struggle with reading, and with so much conflicting advice out there, it can feel overwhelming for teachers to know the best approach. Fortunately, research provides clear guidance on the easiest way to boost reading growth—by using science-backed, structured literacy strategies that work.
In this post, we’ll explore how you can accelerate reading progress without spending years figuring it out.
Why So Many Students Struggle with Reading
Shockingly, 65% of fourth graders in the U.S. read below grade level, and this struggle continues into high school, with 63% of twelfth graders graduating without proficient reading skills. The biggest culprits? Ineffective literacy programs and insufficient teacher training in research-backed methods.
Many widely used curriculums still rely on outdated, disproven strategies such as the three-cueing system, which has been banned in some states due to its ineffectiveness. Instead of continuing ineffective practices, educators must shift to what actually works—explicit, systematic reading instruction based on the Science of Reading.
The Two Key Pillars of Reading Success
To accelerate reading growth, students need to build two essential skill sets:
1. Word Reading Skills
This includes:
- Phonological and Phonemic Awareness – The ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words.
- Phonics and Decoding – Understanding letter-sound relationships and blending them into words.
- Orthographic Mapping – Making words automatic by connecting spelling, pronunciation, and meaning.
2. Language Comprehension Skills
This includes:
- Vocabulary Development – Understanding word meanings.
- Background Knowledge – Having prior knowledge to comprehend new topics.
- Language Structure – Recognizing grammar and sentence patterns.
- Verbal Reasoning – Making inferences and understanding figurative language.
The Fastest and Most Effective Strategies for Boosting Reading Growth
1. Use Systematic Phonics Instruction
Students need direct, structured phonics instruction rather than guessing strategies. Make phonics a daily priority using a research-based scope and sequence that builds skills in a logical, step-by-step progression.
2. Swap Leveled Readers for Decodable Texts
Many early reading programs rely on leveled readers that introduce words beyond students’ phonics knowledge, leading to frustration. Instead, use decodable texts that allow students to apply phonics skills successfully and build confidence.
3. Teach Sight Words Using Sound Mapping
Instead of rote memorization, use sound mapping techniques to help students break high-frequency words into phonemes. This method helps them remember words faster and more accurately.
4. Focus on Phonemic Awareness Before Phonics
Before students can connect letters to sounds, they must recognize and manipulate those sounds. Daily phonemic awareness practice, such as blending, segmenting, and deleting sounds in words, lays a critical foundation for phonics success.
5. Build Vocabulary and Background Knowledge
Strong comprehension starts with understanding words and concepts. Use explicit vocabulary instruction, real-world connections, and engaging read-alouds to help students develop deeper language comprehension.
Bringing It All Together
The easiest way to boost reading growth is by using research-backed strategies that align with how the brain learns to read. When teachers replace ineffective methods with structured, science-based literacy instruction, students make faster and more meaningful progress.
Want More Support?
For ready-to-use lesson plans, phonics activities, and research-backed strategies, join The Science of Reading Formula—your go-to resource for effective literacy instruction. Click here to enroll now!
LINKS
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!
Episode #1: The Ultimate Reading Recipe
Episode #2: How to Build Students’ Rock Solid Foundation
Episode #3: The Best Order to Teach Phonics
Episode #4: Help Students Memorize Words on Auto Pilot
Episode #5: Comprehension Made Simple
WHAT TO LISTEN TO NEXT
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