Question 1

Who is structured literacy for adolescents designed for?

Accepted Answer

Our structured literacy classes are designed for middle and high school students who struggle with foundational reading skills, especially those with word-level deficits in decoding, encoding, fluency, and comprehension. The fifth and sixth grade structured literacy classes are designed to fit within a general ELA curriculum. Structured literacy classes in grades seven and above are meant to be a separate class in addition to their ELA classes.

Question 2

Why did you start these structured literacy classes?

Accepted Answer

Before implementing structured literacy classes, our support model relied on 1:1 and small-group instruction across grade levels. We discovered that many middle school students struggled with significant word-level deficits, particularly in decoding and encoding. At the same time, the demand for Tier 2 intervention was increasing. Small groups often included students with widely varying skills, making it difficult to deliver explicit, systematic instruction. Many students resisted being pulled out of their regular classrooms, feeling embarrassed or stigmatized by the intervention. This approach proved inefficient and unsustainable. We recognized the need for a more innovative model to provide systematic, explicit instruction while preserving students’ dignity and building their confidence.

Question 3

What do you teach in a structured literacy class?

Accepted Answer

Students receive explicit instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension that is tailored to their specific needs. Instruction is presented in a developmentally appropriate model for middle school students.

Question 4

What materials are you using?

Accepted Answer

We are very specific in the materials we use and create. Any materials we use must be evidence based with data to support outcomes. To learn about the specific materials we use, or to discuss what might be best for your literacy classroom, reach out to us.

Question 5

What services do you offer to educators and districts?

Accepted Answer

Informational Sessions
Professional Development and Training 
Consulting - Individual or District

To learn about the specific services we provide to support structured literacy classes, reach out to us.

Empowering Every Reader