While the exact number of "10 key features" isn't specified in the provided reference, Structured Literacy (SL) approaches do have defining characteristics. Based on the reference, key features include explicit, systematic, and sequential teaching of literacy at multiple levels, cumulative practice and ongoing review. So, expanding on that, here's a breakdown of what a comprehensive Structured Literacy program embodies:
Key Features of Structured Literacy
Structured Literacy is an approach to reading instruction that is beneficial for all students and is essential for students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties. It's characterized by:
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Explicit Instruction: Skills are taught directly and clearly, with no assumptions made about prior knowledge.
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Systematic Instruction: Instruction follows a logical order, building from simple to complex concepts.
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Sequential Instruction: Skills are taught in a carefully planned sequence, ensuring mastery at each stage.
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Multisensory Instruction: Engaging multiple senses (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile) to enhance learning and memory.
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Phonological Awareness: Developing awareness of the sounds in language, including blending, segmenting, and manipulating phonemes.
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Phonics: Teaching the relationship between letters and sounds (grapheme-phoneme correspondence) in a systematic manner.
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Syllable Instruction: Teaching the different types of syllables and how they affect pronunciation.
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Morphology: Studying word parts (prefixes, suffixes, roots) to understand word meanings and increase vocabulary. The reference mentions morphemes directly.
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Syntax: Understanding sentence structure and grammar. The reference mentions sentence structure directly.
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Cumulative Practice and Review: Regularly reviewing previously learned concepts and incorporating them into new learning experiences, as mentioned in the reference.
Structured literacy also addresses:
- Vocabulary: Explicit instruction in vocabulary development. The reference mentions vocabulary directly.
- Reading Comprehension: Teaching strategies for understanding and interpreting text. The reference mentions paragraph and text structure.
In summary, Structured Literacy is a comprehensive approach that focuses on teaching the foundational skills necessary for reading success in a structured and explicit way.
