What does the term "the science of reading" encompass?

The term "the science of reading" encompasses a comprehensive understanding of how reading is taught and learned, drawing from evidence-based practices across multiple disciplines. This includes insights from cognitive psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, education, and more, all aimed at developing effective reading instruction strategies that are informed by rigorous research.

Understanding the science of reading involves recognizing that effective reading instruction is not limited to one aspect, such as phonics or comprehension alone, but integrates various elements including phonemic awareness, vocabulary development, fluency, and comprehension strategies. By relying on a breadth of research and expert findings from various fields, practitioners can implement a more holistic and effective approach to teaching reading, one that is supported by empirical evidence rather than intuition or unsubstantiated methods.

This collective knowledge helps educators tailor their instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners, particularly those who may struggle with reading, such as those with dyslexia, ensuring that they receive support that is grounded in proven methodologies.