Research

Science of Reading

What the research really says about how children learn to read.

What Is the Science of Reading?

The science of reading is the large, converging body of research on how children learn to read — and what that evidence means for instruction. In practice, it points to explicit, systematic phonics inside a structured-literacy approach.

The guides below put that evidence to work, covering the structured-literacy practices and instructional routines that research consistently supports.

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Frequently asked questions

Where should I start with science of reading?

Start with the overview at the top, then use the topics list to jump to the area that matches your needs. Each topic links to a fuller guide.

Who are these science of reading pages for?

Both parents and teachers. The guidance is practical and jargon-free, with classroom and at-home applications throughout.

How often is this guidance updated?

We review our phonics guidance regularly against current reading research, so recommendations stay evidence-based.

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