What It Is and Why It Matters

Scientifically based research is characterized by specific qualities. First, this research uses empirical methods, that is, methods that collect data through observation or experiment. Second, scientifically based research has specific hypotheses that are tested with rigorous analysis techniques.

This type of research is generally experimental in design, which means that the work can explain the causes behind a particular phenomenon.

Third, scientifically based research uses methods for collecting data that are valid and accurate. This quality in research assures a level of confidence in the answer. Lastly, scientifically based research has been published in a peer-reviewed journal or has been approved by a panel of independent experts.

What Scientifically Based Research Says About Reading

In the previous five years, two different panels of reading experts, educators, and parents have come together to summarize that research.

This research has isolated the five essential components of reading that children need to become successful readers, especially children at risk for reading difficulties. While not every child will need the same amount, every child will need high quality instruction in these five areas.

Phonemic Awareness is the ability to hear, identify, and play with individual sounds – or Phonemes – in spoken words. This skill characterizes the sense of sounds and how sounds make up words. One example of phonemic awareness is a child’s ability to rhyme words.

Phonics refers to the relationship between the letters of written language and the sounds of spoken language. Research concludes that children who receive systematic and explicit phonics instruction learn more than children who receive no phonics instruction or non-systematic instruction. Systematic phonics instruction is characterized by direct teaching of letters and their sounds in clearly defined sequence.

Fluency is the capacity to read text accurately and quickly. This is a crucial skill – without fluency most children will spend their intellectual energy decoding the words and will miss their meaning. Developing fluency among children occurs best when teachers model fluent reading and when students repeatedly read passages with help from their teacher.

Vocabulary describes the words students must know to communicate effectively.

Comprehension is the ability to understand and gain meaning from what has been read – it is the reason for reading. Students can begin developing comprehension skills in the earliest grades.