Science of Reading: Research and Frameworks

The overview explores the Science of Reading, a research-based framework for literacy development grounded in over 40 years of studies. It highlights two foundational models: the Simple View of Reading, which emphasizes decoding and language comprehension as essential for reading comprehension, and Scarborough's Rope, which details the interconnected cognitive components of reading. The research underscores the importance of explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. It also introduces expanded models like the Componential Model of Reading, the Active View of Reading, and the RAND Model, which incorporate factors like motivation, executive function, and sociocultural context. The paper emphasizes the need for meta-analyses and effect size evaluations to ensure instructional practices are evidence-based and effective. While no single program fully embodies the Science of Reading, educators are encouraged to critically assess curricula for alignment with research-backed practices. The document also addresses challenges in interpreting research and advocates for rigorous evaluation to improve literacy outcomes.