What Is the Science of Reading?

A Definition:

The Reading League's The Science of Reading: Defining Guide defines it as:

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.

Scarborough's Rope

At Nystrom, we have anchored our approach to reading instruction in Scarborough's Rope. Scarborough's Rope, developed by Dr. Hollis Scarborough (2001) expounds on the "simple view" of reading. The rope demonstrates the components of language comprehension and word recognition, and how becoming a skilled reader is a multi-faceted process that requires years of explicit instruction and practice. For a student struggling with reading, this model allows educators to zoom in and identify which specific components the student needs help and support with.

Science of Reading Resources

Reading Research/Resources