Structured Literacy

Structured literacy is an approach to reading instruction that is characterized by the provision of systematic, explicit instruction that integrates: (1) listening, (2) speaking, (3) reading, (4) writing. A structured literacy approach emphasizes the structure of language across the speech sound system (phonology), the writing system (orthography), the structure of sentences (syntax), the meaningful parts of words (morphology), the relationships among words (semantics), and the organization of spoken and written discourse. (IDA/CERI, 2018c, March)

How we teach in all grades:

Teaching the structure of our English language includes:

  • Explicit instruction with modeling
  • Systematic, simple to complex (scope and sequence)
  • Cumulative (new concepts linked to previously learned, review)
  • Diagnostic (differentiate based on student need)
  • Multisensory
  • Phonology
  • Orthography
  • Syntax
  • Morphology
  • Semantics

 

The International Literacy Association has also created a Literacy Glossary. Here is their direct link: ILA Literacy Glossary

      ADE The Science of Reading Infoguide (Dr. Amy Boza, 2021) [PDF]

      Breaking the Code - Typical Literacy vs. Structured Literacy Infoguide [PDF]

      Nancy Young's Ladder of Reading [PDF] (Used with Nancy Young's permission)

       

      **Please email [email protected] for accessible versions of any infographic.

       

      Visit Nancy Young's website to download a PDF version of The Ladder of Reading and Nancy's helpful primer on "What is structured literacy?".

      The Ladder of Reading shows that a structured literacy approach is essential for at least 50-65% of our students, whereas the remaining 40% are still advantaged by a structured literacy approach. Also, you can read more on Nancy's blog.

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       

       


      (Used with Nancy Young's permission)

       

       

      **The views and opinions expressed in any third-party resource do not necessarily reflect those of the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and do not imply an endorsement by ADE.