Structured literacy isn’t just for early readers, it’s for every student who hasn’t yet mastered the code. And in grades 3–5, it’s critical to help students catch up before they fall further behind.
Core Features of Structured Literacy in Upper Grades
- Explicit instruction in phonics, morphology, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
- Systematic sequencing of skills
- Diagnostic teaching that adapts to student needs
- Cumulative review to prevent forgetting
What It Looks Like in Practice
- Warm-up: 5-minute phonemic awareness drill
- Word Study: Explicit instruction in syllable types or affixes
- Decoding + Encoding: Practice with decodable or controlled text
- Comprehension: Scaffolded strategy work using high-interest text
- Fluency: Repeated readings, partner reading, goal setting
Structured literacy is the most effective way to support older struggling readers. It’s never too late to go back to the foundation and rebuild—brick by brick.