13. What is Structured Literacy?

Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators

What is Structured Literacy, exactly? Let’s take a deep dive into this research-based instructional approach rooted in the Science of Reading. We’ll unpack the guiding principles and elements of Structured Literacy, explain how it differs from Balanced Literacy, and share why it’s so effective for teaching all students—especially those with dyslexia or other reading challenges. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of how Structured Literacy sets students up for lifelong success.

Key Takeaways:

• Structured Literacy vs. Balanced Literacy
• Guiding Principles of Structured Literacy: Systematic, Cumulative, Explicit, Diagnostic
• The Five Elements of Structured Literacy
• Why Structured Literacy Matters

Resources Mentioned:

• Structured Literacy - outlined by the IDA
• The Ladder of Reading Infographic by Nancy Young
• Book: Climbing The Ladder of Reading & Writing: Meeting the Needs of ALL Learners by Nancy Young & Jan Hasbrouck
• LETRS Training
• Book: Uncovering the Logic of English by Denise Eide

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