In recent years, there has been increasing attention on the Science of Reading (SoR) across the country. The SoR is a body of research that provides insights into how children learn to read and the best practices for literacy instruction. Tecumseh Local Schools has been at the forefront of embracing and implementing these proven methods in their classrooms to ensure student success in reading and literacy.
What is the Science of Reading?
The Science of Reading is a research-based approach that draws from cognitive science, psychology, linguistics, and education. It focuses on how the brain processes language and reading, providing a clear framework for effective reading instruction. Key components include:
Phonemic Awareness: The ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words.
Phonics: The relationship between sounds and letters.
Fluency: The ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression.
Vocabulary: Understanding the meaning of words.
Comprehension: The ability to understand and interpret what is read.
Tecumseh Local Schools: A Commitment to the Science of Reading
Tecumseh Local Schools has committed to putting the Science of Reading into practice across all grade levels. This commitment includes professional development, new curriculum adoption, and a comprehensive approach to literacy instruction.
Professional Development: LETRS & Ohio's Science of Reading Courses
To ensure that teachers have the tools and knowledge to deliver effective reading instruction, Tecumseh Local Schools has invested in professional development for all teachers K-12.
LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling): A comprehensive professional learning program, LETRS equips educators with a deep understanding of how to teach reading and literacy skills. It focuses on the science behind reading instruction, helping teachers diagnose reading difficulties and apply targeted strategies in the classroom.
Ohio’s Science of Reading Courses: Tecumseh teachers are also participating in Ohio's state-sponsored Science of Reading courses. These courses are aligned with the latest research and designed to support teachers in implementing evidence-based reading instruction. The training provides a clear roadmap for improving student literacy outcomes from kindergarten through 12th grade.
New and Updated Curriculum: Wonders 2023 and Fundations
In tandem with professional development, Tecumseh Local Schools has updated its reading curriculum to align with the principles of the Science of Reading.
Wonders 2023 (Grades K-5): Wonders is a comprehensive literacy program that integrates the Science of Reading into its instructional approach. It provides structured lessons that build foundational reading skills through explicit, systematic instruction. The 2023 edition is updated to reflect the latest research and includes tools for differentiation, ensuring that all students, including struggling readers, receive the support they need.
Key Features of Wonders 2023:
Systematic phonics instruction
Explicit lessons on phonemic awareness and fluency
Vocabulary development and comprehension strategies
Ongoing assessment and intervention tools
Fundations (Grades K-3): Fundations is an evidence-based program designed to build phonological and phonemic awareness, decoding, spelling, and handwriting skills. As part of Tecumseh’s literacy approach, Fundations provides structured, multisensory instruction that aligns with the Science of Reading.
Key Features of Fundations:
Focuses on foundational reading skills
Provides explicit instruction in phonics and spelling
Uses a multisensory approach to reinforce learning
Engages students in hands-on activities that support reading development
Impact on Students and Teachers
By investing in professional development and aligning their curriculum with the Science of Reading, Tecumseh Local Schools is seeing promising results. Teachers are better equipped to identify and address reading difficulties, while students benefit from structured, evidence-based instruction that builds literacy skills progressively.
Benefits of the Science of Reading Implementation:
Increased reading proficiency across grade levels
Targeted support for struggling readers
Consistent, research-backed instruction across all classrooms
Tecumseh Local Schools’ dedication to the Science of Reading reflects their commitment to providing every student with the literacy skills they need to succeed. Through ongoing professional development, cutting-edge curriculum updates, and a focus on the science behind how students learn to read, Tecumseh is ensuring that students receive the best possible education in reading and literacy.