What Is the Science of Reading?

Dianne McKinley
Feb 28, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Oct 2

A person holds an open book in their hands. They are wearing a yellow shirt and reading.

Introduction:

If you’ve spent any time in education lately, you’ve probably heard the phrase “science of reading.” But it’s more than a buzzword. The science of reading is a large body of research explaining how people learn to read, why some students struggle, and which instructional practices reliably lead to success. It’s not a single program or trend — it’s decades of evidence that can transform how we teach literacy.

What Is The Science of Reading

The science of reading draws on cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and education research. It tells us:

Reading isn’t natural. Unlike speaking, children aren’t wired to read — they must be taught.
Proficient reading combines decoding (word recognition) and language comprehension. If either is weak, comprehension suffers.
Instruction should target the “Big Five”: phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Models such as Scarborough’s Reading Rope illustrate how these skills weave together to support fluent, meaningful reading.

Three young girls sit together in a classroom reading a book at a table.

Instructional Implications

Understanding the research means shifting how we teach:

Explicit and systematic instruction: Skills are taught directly and in a logical order.
Cumulative practice: Lessons build over time and review previously taught skills.
Decodable texts: Early readers practice with texts that match what they’ve been taught.
Balanced focus: Strong phonics instruction is paired with vocabulary, background knowledge, and comprehension work.
Data-driven support: Frequent assessments help identify needs and provide targeted interventions.

For struggling readers, especially those with dyslexia or language challenges, early, evidence-based intervention can be life-changing.

Children sit on a bench holding colorful books up as they all read.

Clearing Up Misconceptions

Not just phonics: Phonics is critical, but comprehension and language development matter just as much.
Not a packaged program: The science of reading is research, not a curriculum.
Not a fad: Decades of studies — across multiple disciplines — confirm these principles.

Why It Matters

Literacy is foundational for all other learning. Students who don’t master reading in the early grades often fall behind across subjects. Evidence-aligned practices help close gaps and ensure every child, regardless of background, has a fair shot at success.

Children lay in the green grass as they hold books and read in an outdoor setting.

Conclusion:

The science of reading gives educators a roadmap grounded in evidence, not guesswork. By embracing explicit, systematic, and sequential instruction, we can strengthen literacy outcomes and empower students for lifelong learning.

Additional Resources:

Supporting Productive Struggle:

https://www.thereadingleague.org/what-is-the-science-of-reading/defining-guide-ebook/

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