Implement Science of Reading in K-12 Classrooms

Ellen PaxtonBlog

Do you want to implement Science of Reading (SoR) offering evidence-based strategies that can dramatically improve your students’ literacy skills? Are you looking to revolutionize your approach to teaching reading? Explore how K-12 educators effectively implement Science of Reading principles in their K-12 classrooms, focus on strategies, break down approaches by grade level, address common challenges in SoR implementation and emphasize the impact of SoR on student achievement.

Understanding the Science of Reading

The Science of Reading isn’t just a teaching method—it’s a comprehensive body of research about how we learn to read. This approach to combines:

  • Cognitive psychology
  • Neuroscience
  • Linguistics
  • Educational research

Together, these disciplines provide insights into the most effective ways to teach reading across all grade levels.

The Five Pillars of Reading Instruction

According to the National Reading Panel, effective reading instruction should include:

  1. Phonemic Awareness
  2. Phonics
  3. Fluency
  4. Vocabulary
  5. Comprehension

Let’s dive into how you can implement the Science of Reading by incorporating these elements into your teaching practice.

Implement Science of Reading Strategies by Grade Level

Elementary School (K-5)

  • Focus on explicit phonics instruction
  • Use decodable texts to reinforce phonetic skills
  • Incorporate multisensory learning techniques

Middle School (6-8)

  • Continue advanced phonics and morphology instruction
  • Emphasize academic vocabulary across subjects
  • Teach active reading strategies for complex texts

High School (9-12)

  • Integrate disciplinary literacy practices
  • Focus on critical analysis and synthesis of texts
  • Address gaps in foundational skills as needed

Overcoming Common Challenges to Implement Science of Reading

  1. Resistance to change
  2. Lack of resources
  3. Time constraints
  4. Diverse student needs

Our professional development course addresses these challenges head-on, providing you with practical solutions and support. Each course is 3 graduate credits. Graduate PD credits through online courses allow teachers to complete continuing education requirements in collaboration with regionally accredited universities and colleges.

  • Reading Foundations:
    Comprehensive grasp of the Science of Reading and how it influences reading instruction.
  • Instructional Strategies:
    Emphasis on explicit and systematic teaching methods.
  • Reading and Writing in Content Areas:
    Spotlight on reading comprehension and vocabulary instruction across subjects.
  • Assessment Strategies:
    Focus on reading assessments in all areas of the Science or Reading.

Follow these steps to enroll and START NOW:

Implement Science of Reading in K-12 Classrooms

  1. Select online graduate credit courses (watch a quick FAQ video).
  2. Pay Renew a Teaching License to enroll in the online course (start any time!).
  3. Successfully complete the course requirements at your convenience.
  4. Pay university to register.
  5. Receive an official transcript.

The Impact of SoR on Student Achievement

Research shows that schools that implement the Science of Reading (SoR) principles see:

  • Improved reading scores across all grade levels
  • Reduced need for remedial reading interventions
  • Increased student engagement and confidence

Enhancing Your SoR Skills with Professional Development

Ready to transform your reading instruction? Our online professional development courses offer:

    • Start ANY Time
    • All ONLINE 24×7
    • No Textbook Needed
    • Includes ALL Content
    • Complete ANY Time over 1 year
    • In-depth exploration of Science of Reading principles
    • Practical, classroom-ready strategies
    • Self-paced with guided direction
    • Flexible learning to fit your busy schedule
    • Receive an Official Transcript from a regionally accredited university.

Enroll in our Science of Reading courses today and revolutionize your literacy instruction!
Looking for a shorter introduction to the Art and Science of Reading for teachers? Check out our shorter 5 clock hour options.

How to implement the Science of Reading in your K-12 classroom isn’t just about following a trend—it’s about using proven methods to help every student succeed. By embracing SoR principles and continually developing your skills, you’ll make a lasting impact on your students’ literacy.

Don’t let another school year pass without harnessing the power of the Science of Reading. Sign up for our professional development courses today and start immediately!