top of page

Teacher Resources: Top Books and Articles on the Science of Reading and Dyslexia

Writer's picture: Designed to LearnDesigned to Learn

Updated: Oct 21, 2024

As educators, staying informed about the latest research and best practices in teaching reading is crucial. Here are a few of our favorite resources focusing on the science of reading, structured literacy, and effective teaching strategies for students with dyslexia.


Overview of Structured Literacy


Structured Literacy is an approach to reading instruction that is based on the science of reading. It emphasizes systematic, explicit instruction in key areas of literacy. Here's a brief overview of the components typically included in a Structured Literacy approach:


1. Phonological/Phonemic Awareness

2. Visual Drill (graphemes in isolation for reading)

3. Auditory Drill (phonemes in isolation for spelling)

4. Reading Review (previously learned concepts for reading)

5. Spelling Review (previously learned concepts for spelling)

6. New Concept (for reading and spelling)

7. Connected Text Reading

8. Other skills (vocabulary, comprehension, sentence skills, grammar, writing)


Essential Books for Teachers


1. "Speech to Print: Language Essentials for Teachers" (Third Edition) by Louisa Cook Moats Ed.D.- This comprehensive guide provides teachers with a deep understanding of the structure of language and how it relates to reading instruction.


2. "Language at the Speed of Sight: How We Read, Why So Many Can't, and What Can Be Done About It" by Mark Seidenberg- Seidenberg, a cognitive scientist, explores the science behind reading and offers insights into effective teaching methods.


3. "Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills" (4th Edition) edited by Judith R. Birsh Ed.D. and Suzanne Carreker M.Ed. Ph.D. - This textbook provides a wealth of information on multisensory techniques for teaching reading, writing, and spelling.


4. "Unlocking Literacy: Effective Decoding and Spelling Instruction" (Second Edition) by Marcia K. Henry Ph.D., with a foreword by Maryanne Wolf - Henry's work focuses on the importance of systematic instruction in decoding and spelling for developing strong literacy skills.




For Educators and Parents Alike


  1. "The Knowledge Gap" by Natalie Wexler - While not directly related to the science of reading or dyslexia, this is a book every teacher and public school parent should read and may enjoy. Improving elementary schools and the content needed for understanding the world around us, which is directly related to comprehension knowledge.

  2. "Cultural Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know" by E.D. Hirsch - In the same vein as "The Knowledge Gap," this is an in-depth dive into the history and motivation behind the popular Core Knowledge movement.

  3. "What's RIGHT with Me?: Hope for the Dyslexic" by Joan Stambaugh - Written by a Certified Academic Language Therapist, these are stories designed to inspire and motivate positive change for those with dyslexia.

  4. "Overcoming Dyslexia (2020 Edition): Second Edition, Completely Revised and Updated" by Dr. Sally Shawitz - Designed to equip, this comprehensive guide to dyslexia is a must read (or listen) for parents and teachers who desire an accessible and in-depth dive into what dyslexia is, what it is not, and what works for remediation.

  5. "Basic Facts about Dyslexia & Other Reading Problems" by Louisa Cook Moats Ed.D. and Karen E. Dakin - Similar to "Overcoming Dyslexia," this book is designed to equip the reader to understand and advocate for those with dyslexia.

  6. "I Have Dyslexia" series by David P. Hurford, Ph.D. and April Huninghake - These illustrated books are designed for children to talk about what a dyslexia diagnosis is and how the brain simply thinks differently - a positive, kind, supportive way to discuss dyslexia with children!




Key Articles and Papers


  1. Hochman, J.C., & Wexler, N. (2019). The Connections Between Writing, Knowledge Acquisition, and Reading Comprehension. International Dyslexia Association Fall Perspectives. - This article explores the interconnected nature of writing, knowledge acquisition, and reading comprehension, providing valuable insights for integrated literacy instruction.


  2. Shanahan, Timothy. (2017). Can I Still Rely on the National Reading Panel Report? Reading Rockets.  - Shanahan, a renowned literacy expert, discusses the relevance of the National Reading Panel's findings in light of more recent research, offering a balanced perspective on reading instruction.


  3. Ray, Jennifer S. (2020). Structured Literacy Supports All Learners: Students At-Risk of Literacy Acquisition – Dyslexia and English Learners. Texas Association for Literacy Education Yearbook, Volume 7: Leaping into Literacy (pp. 37-42) - A great explanation of what structured literacy is in an accessible, clear format for parents and teachers alike.


  4. Reynolds, Cecil R. and Shaywitz, Sally E. (2010). Response to Intervention: Ready or Not? Or, From Wait-to-Fail to Watch-Them-Fail. Sch Psychol Q. 2009 June 1; 24(2): 130. doi:10.1037/a0016158. - Written by experts in dyslexia and special education, the discussion of the discrepancy model of Response to Intervention enlightens both parents and educators to the issues at hand when working towards remediation for those with Specific Learning Disability (under which the term dyslexia is categorized).


Must-Follow Organizations and Online Resources


To stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the science of reading, consider following these reputable organizations:


  1. The 74 Million - Science of Reading- A nonprofit news site covering education in America, with a dedicated section on the science of reading.


  2. International Dyslexia Association (IDA) - Provides resources, research, and support for individuals with dyslexia and professionals in the field.


  3. Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators- Offers resources and training in the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading instruction.


  4. Center for Dyslexia at Middle Tennessee State University - Provides research, resources, and professional development opportunities related to dyslexia and reading instruction.


  5. Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity - Conducts and disseminates cutting-edge research on dyslexia and reading instruction.


  6. Made By Dyslexia - A global charity led by successful dyslexics, offering resources and advocacy for dyslexia awareness and support.


These resources provide a solid foundation for understanding the science of reading and implementing effective literacy instruction. By staying informed about current research and best practices, teachers can better support their students in developing strong reading skills.


Remember, professional development is an ongoing process. Consider joining professional organizations, attending workshops, and engaging in continuous learning to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in reading instruction. The online resources provided offer excellent starting points for further exploration and ongoing education in the field of reading science.



 

This post is part of our 31 Days of Dyslexia series, offering practical insights for educators and parents. Subscribe and follow along to learn more strategies that can make a difference in the lives of dyslexic learners!




11 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Structured Literacy Trained Reading Expert in Kansas
Academic Language Therapy Association Certified Dyslexia Professional in Wichita, Kansas
Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) Registered Reading Instructor in the State of Kansas Reading Help
Dyslexia Tutor backed by the Academic Language Therapy Association
Orton-Gillingham Trained Multisensory Phonics Instructor in Kansas

© 2023 Designed to Learn

bottom of page