As a reading teacher who’s worn many hats – music educator, curriculum developer, classroom teacher, and now a LETRs-trained reading specialist – I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of explicit skills instruction in helping older elementary students who struggle with reading.

For years, I relied on the traditional approach to reading instruction: small groups, leveled readers, and a whole lot of guessing. While some students thrived, others continued to fall behind and I couldn’t understand why, despite my best efforts, my reading instruction just wasn’t working. It wasn’t until I dove into the Science of Reading that the lightbulb finally switched on.

What is the Science of Reading?

The Science of Reading is a vast body of research that reveals how our brains learn to read. It’s not a single program or method, but a framework grounded in decades of scientific evidence. One of the most crucial takeaways is the importance of explicit, systematic instruction in foundational reading skills.

Why Explicit Instruction is Crucial for Older Students

You might be wondering, “Isn’t explicit instruction just for young children learning their ABCs?” Not at all! While early intervention is ideal, older struggling readers often have gaps in their foundational skills that need to be addressed directly. Explicit instruction involves:

• Breaking down complex skills: Reading is a complex process, and explicit instruction breaks it down into manageable chunks, teaching each skill step-by-step.
• Systematic progression: Skills are taught in a logical sequence, building upon previously learned concepts.
• Clear modeling and explanation: Teachers model the skill, explain the “why” behind it, and provide guided practice.
• Ample opportunities for practice: Students practice the skill repeatedly with feedback until it becomes automatic.

Success in Action: Real-Life Transformations

One of my fifth-grade students, *Emily, struggled with decoding multisyllabic words. Through explicit instruction in syllable types and decoding strategies, she not only gained confidence but also developed a love for reading chapter books. Another student, Michael*, had difficulty with spelling. Explicit phonics instruction empowered him to apply sound-spelling patterns and see significant improvement in his writing. Of course, that’s a really simplified version of what was, in reality, weeks and weeks of hard work for teacher and student!

*not real names

What Does Explicit Instruction Look Like in Action?

Let’s take phonics instruction as an example. Instead of relying on context clues or memorization, explicit phonics instruction teaches students:

• Letter-sound relationships: The sounds each letter or letter combination makes.
• Decoding strategies: How to sound out words systematically.
• Encoding strategies: How to apply phonics knowledge to spell words.

With older students, we might dive deeper into:

• Multisyllabic word decoding: Breaking down longer words into syllables.
• Morphemic analysis: Understanding the meaning of word parts (prefixes, suffixes, roots) to decipher unfamiliar words.
• Fluency strategies: Building reading speed and accuracy through repeated practice.

At my TPT store, Teen Foundations, I offer a variety of resources specifically designed to support explicit skills instruction with older students. You’ll find engaging and explicit activities Word Attack, Syllable Type Boot Camp, and a Giant Phonics Games Bundle that make learning fun and interactive while reinforcing critical skills.

Why It Matters: Changing the Trajectory for Struggling Readers

Explicit skills instruction isn’t just about teaching reading – it’s about unlocking potential, fostering confidence, and changing the trajectory for students who have previously felt defeated. When students understand the “why” behind reading, they become active participants in their learning journey.

If you’re a parent or educator of older struggling readers, I urge you to explore the Science of Reading and advocate for explicit skills instruction. It’s never too late to make a difference.

For practical tools and resources to get started, be sure to check out my TPT store, Teen Foundations.