What is a benefit of a structured literacy approach for struggling readers?

A structured literacy approach is particularly beneficial for struggling readers because it offers explicit and systematic instruction. This method is designed to teach reading in a way that builds on previously learned skills while introducing new ones in a clear and logical sequence. This structured methodology helps students understand the rules of language, including phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension, ensuring they have a comprehensive grasp of what goes into reading.

By being explicit, the approach clearly defines each component of literacy, allowing students to understand what they are learning and how it applies to reading. Systematic instruction means that students are taught skills in a planned and sequential manner, which is crucial for those who may struggle to make connections between sounds and letters or to comprehend what they read.

In contrast, random instruction lacks the structure necessary to effectively build reading skills, while excluding foundational skills training would leave students without the necessary tools to decode and understand text. Focusing solely on comprehension ignores the essential skills needed to decode and understand the language at a fundamental level. Thus, the structured literacy approach directly addresses the needs of struggling readers, equipping them with essential reading skills and enhancing overall literacy.