Structured literacy is taught based on three core principles, according to the International Dyslexia Association®: it is systematic & cumulative, diagnostic, and explicit. These principles work together to provide a comprehensive and effective approach to literacy instruction.
Principles of Structured Literacy:
Here's a breakdown of each principle:
| Principle | Description | Key Aspects |
|---|---|---|
| Systematic & Cumulative | Instruction follows a logical sequence, building upon previously learned skills. New concepts are introduced in a carefully planned order, ensuring a strong foundation for more complex skills. | Concepts and skills are taught in a specific order. Each new concept builds on previously mastered concepts. * Review and practice are integrated continuously to ensure retention. |
| Diagnostic | Teaching is data-driven, assessing each student's strengths and weaknesses to tailor instruction to their needs. Regular assessments help identify areas where students are struggling and allow for adjustments in the teaching plan. | Frequent assessments are used to monitor student progress. Areas of weakness are pinpointed to adjust instruction. * Individualized instruction can be implemented where necessary. |
| Explicit | The instructor provides direct and clear instruction with detailed explanations of each concept and skill. Nothing is left for students to guess; concepts and their application are clearly demonstrated and explained. | Clear and concise explanation of concepts and skills. Modeling and demonstrations are frequently used. * Students are given sufficient opportunities for guided and independent practice. |
How these Principles are Applied
Structured literacy isn't just about knowing these principles; it's about how they're used in practice:
- Systematic & Cumulative: Start with phonemic awareness, then move to letter sounds, then syllable patterns, etc. Each step logically follows the previous one.
- Example: You wouldn't introduce complex vowel teams before ensuring students grasp basic consonant and short vowel sounds.
- Diagnostic: Use regular assessments to check understanding.
- Example: If a student struggles with blending sounds, focus on targeted blending exercises and activities.
- Explicit: Clearly explain what each sound is, how it is made, and how it is represented in writing.
- Example: Instead of simply showing a letter, explain the letter's name, the sound it makes, and how the mouth should move to produce that sound.
Why These Principles Matter
These principles are crucial because they ensure that literacy instruction is:
- Effective: Students are more likely to succeed when skills are taught in a logical and structured way.
- Targeted: Instruction is tailored to individual needs, addressing weaknesses and building on strengths.
- Clear: Students understand exactly what they are learning and how to apply it.
By incorporating these three principles—systematic & cumulative, diagnostic, and explicit—teachers can provide a solid foundation for literacy for all learners.
