Elements of Reading - Comprehension

Elements of Reading - Comprehension Program

Program Description

Elements of Reading: Comprehension is an additional instructional program meant to complement standard textbooks, aiming to strengthen comprehension skills in intermediate-grade students. The program incorporates authentic literature to develop vocabulary, comprehension, and writing abilities through structured five-day lesson sequences. These lessons focus on repeated readings, discussions, and practice activities. To implement the program effectively, teachers attend a three-hour training workshop.

Student population

Elements of Reading: Comprehension Program has been examined in 3rd through 4th grade with 413 students. The demographic studied included African American, Hispanic, and White students, with a notable proportion eligible for Free and Reduced Price Meals, indicating varied socio-economic backgrounds. The research was taken from both rural and urban communities.

Current evidence

The Elements of Reading Program has been rated as Promising by Evidence for ESSA (https://evidenceforessa.org/program/elements-of-reading-comprehension/) for students in grades three and four. A study examining the effectiveness of Elements of Reading: Comprehension in third-grade classrooms found improved outcomes compared to control groups. Using the Gates-MacGinitie and ERDA assessments, the program demonstrated an average effect size of +0.07.

For more information:

Harcourt Achieve: Phone: 800-437-3715

Resendez, M., Sridiharan, S., & Azin, M. (2006). Harcourt Achieve’s Elements of Reading: Comprehension randomized control trial. Jackson, WY: PRES Associates.