In their Science of Reading Defining Guide, the Reading League (2021) tells us “The science of reading is a vast, interdisciplinary body of scientifically-based research about reading and issues related to reading and writing.” Further, among explanation of what the science of reading is NOT, the Reading League asserts, it is not “a single, specific component of instruction, such as phonics”.
The Simple View (Hoover & Gough, 1990)
This scientific model of reading development emphasizes there are in fact two broad factors necessary to reach the goal of reading for meaning. To have good reading comprehension, a child must have equally important abilities in both word recognition and oral language comprehension.
Warning! Some educators tend to focus solely on the word recognition set of components related to explicit instruction in phonological/phonemic awareness, decoding, and sight recognition of familiar words. This appears to be a common misconception. Let’s not forget the other language comprehension part of the equation as just as vital. Focused instruction should also involve activating and enhancing background knowledge, vocabulary, language structures such as semantics and syntax, verbal reasoning, and literacy knowledge of print concepts and genres.
Resources
At TTAC ODU, we have resources available for check-out from our lending library which comprehensively address both parts of the Simple View of Reading. Preview our Literacy Resource Guide for a sample list.
To learn more about the various topics grounded in science-based reading research, explore the Virginia Literacy Partnership’s Value Series. This series scaffolds learning about each topic by presenting short introductory videos, infographics, recorded webinars, instructional resources, and finally additional readings for each of the key components of effective instruction. A Professional Learning Guide is included for each topic that provides a step-by-step comprehensive implementation approach and can be used by coaches.
References
Hoover, W. A., & Gough, P. B. (1990). The simple view of reading. Reading and Writing: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 2(2), 127–160. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00401799
The Reading League. (2021). Science of reading: Defining guide. Retrieved from: https://www.thereadingleague.org/what-is-the-science-of-reading/defining-guide-ebook/
