Immersing oneself in a book can transport you to a different world, as described by Aylynn, an eighth grader in Phoenix, Arizona. She recognizes the value of reading in helping her understand different cultures and perspectives. Speaking with Aylynn during a visit to Pendergast Elementary District, my colleagues and I from Imagine Learning learned about the profound impact of the Imagine Learning EL Education curriculum on educators and students alike.
The Science of Reading
Research in educational psychology, cognitive science, and neuroscience has shaped the science of reading, offering evidence-based strategies for effective reading instruction. This science emphasizes the crucial role of word recognition, language comprehension, and bridging skills in helping students become proficient readers.
Word recognition involves phonological awareness, phonics, and decoding, while language comprehension requires background knowledge and language structure mastery. Bridging skills connect these processes, fostering a holistic approach to reading instruction.
Content-Based Literacy
Digital and blended learning programs that align with the science of reading are increasingly being adopted in schools to support reading instruction. The Imagine Learning EL Education curriculum is a prime example of this, offering explicit instruction in key reading areas while engaging students with real-world content.
I had the opportunity to speak with educators at Pendergast who praised the program’s effectiveness in translating reading principles into practical teaching methods. The blend of phonics instruction, vocabulary development, and hands-on activities resonated with both teachers and students, enhancing the learning experience.
One teacher, Kathryn, highlighted the value of students reading complete novels instead of isolated snippets, emphasizing the depth and engagement that long-form content offers. This sentiment was echoed by principal Abraham, who noted the impact on comprehension and achievement.
Assistant Director of Interdisciplinary Literacy, Kelsie, emphasized the importance of high-quality instructional materials that align with standards while being culturally relevant for students. She stressed the long-term impact of such materials on student learning and readiness for the future.
A Passport to Achievement
For teachers and students embarking on a journey with a holistic curriculum like Imagine Learning EL Education, the impact is profound. Kelsie notes how the program covers a range of literacy needs across grade levels, allowing students to develop foundational skills and eventually excel in their learning journey.
Reading is, as school counselor Akin aptly puts it, a gateway to the world. When the science of reading is brought to life in the classroom through programs like Imagine Learning EL Education, students not only learn to read but also gain the skills to navigate the world with confidence. Reading becomes a passport to understanding, empathy, and limitless knowledge, enabling students to achieve their aspirations.
