Beginning Reading - Comprehension

Program
Open Court Reading

Open Court Reading

Program Description

Open Court Reading is a comprehensive core reading program designed to build foundational literacy skills in students from kindergarten through grade 6. The program emphasizes systematic and explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and fluency. Lessons follow a structured sequence and include teacher-led instruction, guided practice, and independent reading. Open Court Reading also integrates science and social studies content to promote cross-curricular learning and includes assessments to monitor student progress.

Student Population

Open Court Reading has been studied with early elementary students, primarily in grades 1 and 2. The primary evaluation reviewed by the What Works Clearinghouse included 2,217 students from urban public schools. The sample consisted of students from diverse backgrounds, including a significant proportion of students eligible for Free and Reduced Price Lunch and English language learners. The study population included Black, Hispanic, and White students, reflecting a broad demographic range.

Current Evidence

Open Court Reading has mixed evidence of effectiveness, according to the What Works Clearinghouse(https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/WWC/Docs/InterventionReports/wwc_opencourt_102114.pdf). One quasi-experimental study that met WWC standards with reservations reported a statistically significant positive effect on reading achievement, with an effect size of +0.15. However, evidence across multiple domains is limited. While there is some support for its effectiveness in improving alphabetics and fluency, the program did not demonstrate significant impacts in comprehension or general reading achievement across all studies. Based on this, the program does not currently qualify for the highest evidence ratings but shows promise in specific areas.

For more information:

Website: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/InterventionReport/347

Borman, G. D., Dowling, N. M., & Schneck, C. (2008). A multisite cluster randomized field trial of Open Court Reading. Educational Evaluation & Policy Analysis, 30(4), 389–407.