evidence-based practice

Screenshot of the homepage for the structured literacy module

Introducing the Structured Literacy eLearning Module

Monday, September 11, 2023
The IRRC's new eLearning module provides an overview of the cornerstone elements of structured literacy instruction with video examples recorded in active classrooms.
Screenshot image of the caregiver resource hub home page

Introducing Our Caregivers Resource Hub

Thursday, August 17, 2023
The IRRC's Caregivers Resource Hub contains eLearning modules and resources families can use to support their children's literacy development.
Students are seated on the classroom floor as their teacher teaches during the literacy block.

Making the Change: One District’s Science of Reading Journey

Monday, July 17, 2023
Learn how Spencer Community School District's universal pivot to science-of-reading-aligned literacy instruction began, what the implementation process looked like, and how the shift has impacted educators, students, caregivers, and administrators.
A speech bubble on a gold background reading "Q&A," below which is the text "with Emily Hanford." Pictured is an adult woman with short blond hair.

Reporting on Reading With Emily Hanford

Tuesday, June 6, 2023
The journalist discusses her background as an education correspondent, her hopes for the science of reading movement, and more.
A possum standing on top of a fence

Explicit Vocabulary Instruction Using the POSSUM Approach

Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Teach students to use phonology, orthography, syntax, semantics, understanding, and morphology in the process of learning new vocabulary words.
A speech bubble on a gold background reading "Q&A," below which is the text "with Reid Lyon." Pictured is a smiling man with white hair and a tan suit.

The Neuroscience of Reading With Dr. G. Reid Lyon

Thursday, May 25, 2023
Esteemed reading researcher Dr. G. Reid Lyon discusses key discoveries in reading research and how these discoveries can inform teaching today.
Illustration with an ear listening, pencil writing, book for reading, and mouth for speaking

Read It, Say It, Hear It, Write It: Instructional Routines That Engage the Four Language Skill Areas

Tuesday, May 16, 2023
It is vital that all literacy instructional routines include synthetic and analytic practice activities that engage all four language skill areas.
A speech bubble on a gold background reading "Q&A," below which is the text "with Melissa Loftus and Lori Sappington." Pictured are two smiling women with brown hair.

Loving the Science of Reading With Melissa and Lori

Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Podcasters and educators Melissa Loftus and Lori Sappington talk science of reading, their favorite podcast moments, and more.
A blonde woman wearing a pink sweater sits in front of a laptop. She is pushing her glasses onto her head while looking intently at the papers in her hand.

Scope and Sequence: What Is It, and How Do Educators Use It to Guide Instruction?

Tuesday, March 21, 2023
Learn how to gain an understanding of whether a literacy program provides systematic and thorough instruction for all students.
Boy reading a book in class with two classmates in the background

What Is the Science of Reading?

Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Find out why it’s important to have a common understanding of such a widely used term and take a closer look at the type of science in the science of reading.
Teacher with reading program materials in front of class

Is It the Materials or the Instruction That Make For a Good Reading Program?

Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Read why teaching in an explicit, systematic way with differentiation is at the heart of the best performing reading programs.
Teachers talking in a classroom together with a tablet

One District’s Journey to Every Middle School Student Achieving Literacy Proficiency

Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Cedar Rapids schools are creating a shared literacy instructional vision and partnering with the Iowa Reading Research Center.