Introduction
Structured Literacy, grounded in the Science of Reading, is a research-based approach that integrates explicit instruction in reading and writing. In a recent episode of Literacy Talks, hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny explored the essential components of comprehension and composition from the IDA Perspective’s article, highlighting the importance of vocabulary, sentence structure, text structure, and critical thinking in literacy instruction.
This foundational content piece will dive deep into their discussion, unpacking key takeaways and practical applications for educators aiming to strengthen reading and writing skills in their students.
The Interwoven Nature of Reading and Writing
One of the core messages of the discussion was the integrated nature of Structured Literacy. The hosts emphasized that reading and writing should not be treated as separate entities but as simultaneous processes that reinforce one another.
“We are teaching reading and writing at the same time—both are going to be included. Now, we’re also simultaneously going to be addressing comprehension and composition as well.” — Stacy Hurst
Structured Literacy classrooms prioritize this integration through explicit instruction in key areas such as vocabulary, background knowledge, sentence structure, text structure, and critical thinking.
Building Vocabulary and Background Knowledge
Vocabulary development is fundamental to reading comprehension and written expression. The discussion underscored that vocabulary acquisition can begin before formal reading instruction even starts.
“Read aloud to them! From the time they’re babies… because the language in written text is much different than speaking.” — Lindsay Kemeny
Practical Strategies for Vocabulary Instruction
- Read-Alouds: Expose children to rich language and diverse topics from an early age.
- Oral Language Conversations: Engage students in discussions that expand their vocabulary naturally.
- Word Relationships and Context Clues: Encourage students to infer meaning from surrounding sentences rather than relying on isolated definitions.
Donell Pons shared an observation about students who have been read to frequently:
“They may not know the meaning of the first word, but if they hang in there to the next sentence, meaning becomes available to them.”
This natural process of language development highlights why structured vocabulary instruction, tied directly to reading and writing, is essential.
Sentence Structure and Grammar: The Building Blocks of Writing
A key takeaway from the episode was the importance of direct instruction in sentence structure and grammar. Many teachers were not explicitly trained to teach these concepts, making it an area of ongoing professional development.
Lindsay Kemeny reflected on her own teaching journey:
“I used to give my kids daily oral language sheets and just go over answers… That was my grammar instruction. Now, I tie grammar and sentence structure into what we’re reading and writing about.”
Effective Strategies for Teaching Sentence Structure
- Sentence Combining and Expansion: Teach students to take short, choppy sentences and combine them into longer, grammatically correct ones.
- Syntax Awareness Activities: Use structured exercises such as sentence mapping and sentence deconstruction.
- Explicit Grammar Instruction: Move beyond worksheets to contextualized grammar lessons that connect to reading and writing.
By embedding sentence structure and grammar instruction into authentic literacy experiences, educators can foster stronger writing skills and more fluent comprehension.
Text Structure: Organizing Information for Better Understanding
Understanding text structure is essential for both reading comprehension and writing proficiency. The podcast discussion highlighted how narrative and informational text structures influence how students process and retain information.
Narrative vs. Informational Text Structures
- Narrative Structure: Includes elements like character, setting, problem, resolution, and key events.
- Informational Text Structure: Covers description, sequence, compare-contrast, cause-effect, and problem-solution patterns.
“We can map the story using a mnemonic: C-SPACE—Character, Setting, Problem, Action, Conclusion, Emotion.” — Lindsay Kemeny
How to Teach Text Structure Effectively
- Use Graphic Organizers: Story maps and text structure charts help students visually organize information.
- Explicitly Teach Text Features: Show students how to recognize headings, captions, and transition words that signal structure.
- Connect to Writing Assignments: Teach students to use these structures when composing their own stories and essays.
Critical Thinking: Moving Beyond Surface-Level Reading
One of the most compelling points of the discussion was the necessity of teaching students to think deeply about texts.
“This effort must be intentional and prioritized, especially in this age of digital reading, where students often skim rather than read deeply.” — Barbara Wilson (quoted in the episode)
Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Literacy
- Think-Alouds: Model deep thinking by verbalizing the thought process while reading a text.
- Questioning Strategies: Encourage students to ask why and how questions rather than just what.
- Connecting Texts: Help students draw parallels between different readings to develop a comprehensive mental model.
Lindsay Kemeny shared a practical example:
“Sometimes a student will raise their hand and interrupt with a really deep question, and I love it! I always make a point to highlight how great it is that they’re thinking critically about what we’re reading.”
Encouraging students to engage actively with text rather than passively consuming it is key to building strong readers.
Final Thoughts: The Integrated Nature of Structured Literacy
At the heart of Structured Literacy is an emphasis on explicit, systematic, and mastery-oriented instruction. Reading and writing instruction must be intertwined, supporting automaticity, fluency, and reading proficiency.
Key Takeaways for Educators
- Teach Reading and Writing Simultaneously – Integrate comprehension and composition within literacy instruction.
- Prioritize Vocabulary and Sentence Structure – Develop students’ word awareness and ability to construct meaningful sentences.
- Use Text Structure as a Guide – Teach students how different types of texts are organized.
- Foster Deep, Critical Thinking – Go beyond basic comprehension and encourage analytical discussions.
As the podcast concluded, Stacy Hurst reminded listeners of a crucial point:
“The tenets of Structured Literacy will continue to evolve with additional research, but there is sufficient evidence to fully implement a Structured Literacy approach now. Students deserve no less.”
By adopting these principles, educators can equip students with the skills they need to become proficient readers and writers for life.
