The traditional definition of literacy is considered to be the ability to use language to read, write, listen, and speak as well as to understand the meaning of what is read, or listened to.

To achieve that goal it is important to recognize and understand the components of a good literacy program.  I will attempt to help define that which I know to be important.  Happy Reading!

What are the 5 Components of Reading ?

Phonemic awareness: the skills needed to recognize that a spoken word consists of a sequence of individual sounds. Phonemic awareness is the ability to notice, think about, and work with the individual sounds in spoken words. An example of how beginning readers show us they have phonemic awareness is combining or blending the separate sounds of a word to say the word ("/c/ /a/ /t/ - cat.")

  • Sound
  • Rhyming
  • Syllables

Phonics: Phonics knowing that there is a predictable relationship between (phonemes), the sounds in spoken language and (graphemes), the letters that represent those sounds in written language and that this information can be used to read or decode words.

Fluency: Fluency is the ability to read a text accurately, quickly, and with proper expression and comprehension. Because fluent readers do not have to concentrate on decoding words, they can focus their attention on what the text means.

Vocabulary: Vocabulary refers to the words a reader knows. Listening vocabulary refers to the words a person knows when hearing them in oral speech. Speaking vocabulary refers to the words we use when we speak. Reading vocabulary refers to the words a person knows when seeing them in print. Writing vocabulary refers to the words we use in writing.

Comprehension: Comprehension is the reason for reading: understanding what is read,

 

 

Direct Instruction:

What is it?  What does it look like:

Direct instruction is an instructional approach that utilizes explicit and structured teaching routines. A teacher using direct instruction models, explains, and guides the students through extended practice of a skill or concept until mastery is achieved. The lessons are fast paced, students are academically engaged, and teachers are enthusiastically delivering instruction. Direct instruction is appropriate instruction for all learners, all five components of reading, and in all settings (whole group, small group, and one-on-one).

 

 

90 Minute Reading Block

Why is that important?

The 90 minute reading block is widely recommended as a “starting place” This amount of time can be adjusted depending on students’ reading achievement and is a minimum requirement for all children K-2 at Gearing.

In order to provide effective reading instruction whereby students are explicitly instructed and then given appropriate amounts of time to practice; Research indicates that instruction for beginning readers and struggling readers be at least 90 minutes a day or more.