The Journey Begins With A . .

Reading Overview

 Why It Matters

The abilities to read and write are not only necessary for one’s success in school, but in one’s lifelong achievements.

Reading Fundamentals

  • Five Essential Elements for True Reading

    Focus Sounds (phonemic awareness)

    It all begins with the spoken word one hears. Hearing the similarities and differences in the words spoken, lays the foundation for literacy learning.

    Alphabet Letters (phonics)

    A reader must be able to build the connections between the sounds one hears and the visual symbols (alphabet letters) one sees.

    Word Knowledge

    Word Knowledge encompasses two areas; Word Attack Skills and Vocabulary Knowledge.

    Fluency

    Fluency is the ability to read at the appropriate pace or rate, with accuracy, and proper expression.

    Comprehension

    Comprehension is the understanding and interpretation of what is read. This is the ultimate goal of reading.

    Five Essential Elements Home Page

  • Stages of Readers

    Emergent Reader (6 months to 5 years)

    Early Emergent Readers are learning the sounds of their language. As they grow and develop, they begin to learn the connections between the sounds they hear and the written symbols (alphabet letters) they see.

    Novice Reader (5 to 7 years)

    Novice Readers continue to build up their phonics (letters & sounds) ability, as they increase their foundation for fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

    Decoding Reader (7 to 9 years)

    Decoding Readers continue to strengthen and build upon their foundation for fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

    Fluent & Comprehending Reader (9 to 15 years)

    Fluent & Comprehending Readers continue to strengthen and build upon their foundation for fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

    Expert Reader (15+ years)

    Expert Readers continue to strengthen and build upon their foundation for fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

    Stages of Readers Home Page

  • Struggling Readers

    Learning disabilities, lack of literacy experiences, or inadequate reading instruction may all lead to reading difficulties.

    When these or other risk factors are identified, and appropriate support is given, many struggling readers can become fluent readers.

    Struggling Readers Home Page

  • Hands-on Activities

    Participating in hands-on activities, allows a young reader to be fully engaged with the learning process. Children learn best if they are being fully involved in an activity, rather than passively sitting.

    Hands-on Activities Home Page