Welcome to ESSENTIALS FOR READING SUCCESS! To teach reading effectively, it is necessary to understand and use scientifically based reading instruction. ESSENTIALS FOR READING SUCCESS content was designed to provide support to teachers as they deliver scientifically based reading instruction in their classrooms.

ESSENTIALS FOR READING SUCCESS includes information about how to use data from assessments, and incorporate response to intervention, the features of effective instruction (including differentiated instruction), and evidence-based practices to teach the critical components of reading.

Tier 1 instruction includes the critical components of reading:

• Oral Language
• Phonological Awareness
• Phonics
• Fluency
• Vocabulary
• Comprehension
• Writing

These critical components need to be taught explicitly in classrooms that

• are positive and engaging,
• use writing activities to support literacy, and
• provide students with many opportunities to read interesting text and complete authentic reading and writing assignments.

Teachers typically follow a core reading curriculum to guide instruction in whole and small group settings. Small group instruction should be differentiated to reflect the instructional needs of the students. Individual student needs are determined by formal screening, progress monitoring assessments, classroom assessments, and teacher observations. The goal is to use information from multiple sources to group students in a way that makes instruction in critical reading skills most efficient. For more information on the content and sequence for delivery see Components of Reading Overview.

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