The What Works Model
Three components are critical to the design, implementation, and sustainability of reading instruction:
- Effective professional development to equip educators with a solid knowledge base
- Proven instructional tools aligned to the knowledge base
- Significant systemic reorganization and support
Grow a solid knowledge base.
Professional development is critical to equip teachers and school leaders with the research-based knowledge they need to design reading programs, select the right tools and use them well, and develop support systems. The most effective school implementation designs will take into account the need for ongoing professional development and job-embedded learning in order to create and sustain a culture of continuous learning and continuous improvement.
Get the right tools and use them well.
The research on effective reading instruction is well known today. School systems should choose materials and other tools, such as assessment instruments, intervention programs, and core programs that reflect that research. School leaders need to ensure that teachers get the support necessary to master these tools.
Build institutional capacity.
The renewed attention to reading instruction has led many educators to make substantial shifts in how reading is taught. But no change will reach its full potential without addressing systemic issues. Once the school system embraces a new curriculum and practices, implementation will require supportive districtwide structures, sufficient time, expert coaching, appropriate assessments, and knowledgeable leadership.
Over the past few years, thousands of schools and districts have taken steps to change reading instruction. Many are successful—able to sustain strong growth over time and reach their achievement targets. But some have been less successful in spite of taking many of the right steps. What is the difference? Here is what we have learned.
Want to learn more about the What Works model? Read Implementing and Sustaining an Effective Reading Program (a CORE elementary briefing paper) and Implementing and Sustaining a Middle and High School Reading and Intervention Program (a CORE adolescent literacy briefing paper).