Why SRA Reading Mastery is the Best Approach to Teach Reading Skills?
Reading is a fundamental skill that affects all aspects of learning. As parents, educators, and policymakers, we strive to provide children with the best possible reading instruction. However, achieving reading success is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Many methodologies have been developed over the years, but research suggests that the most effective one is the SRA Reading Mastery approach.
What is SRA Reading Mastery?
SRA Reading Mastery is a comprehensive program designed to teach students how to read effectively. Developed in the United States in the 1960s, it has been refined over the years and is currently in its fourth edition. The program combines explicit instruction, systematic review, and positive reinforcement to support students’ comprehension and fluency.
The Importance of Explicit Instruction
The SRA Reading Mastery program is based on explicit instruction. This means that the teacher models the skills required for students to learn and directs their learning step-by-step. Explicit teaching is particularly important for struggling or at-risk readers. Research has shown that students who received explicit instruction in reading achieved better results in comprehension and fluency than those who do not.
The Benefits of Systematic Review
The SRA Reading Mastery program includes a systematic review of previously learned skills. Systematic review is essential because it helps students to retain information and transfer it to future learning. Review sessions are designed to reinforce previously learned skills, and providing students with immediate feedback helps to build their confidence.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
The SRA Reading Mastery approach uses a variety of positive reinforcement techniques to motivate students and provide feedback. Positive reinforcement can take many forms, such as verbal praise, tokens, or stickers, and is aimed at encouraging regular attendance, good behavior, and academic progress. Numerous studies have demonstrated that positive reinforcement has a significant effect on student achievement.
SRA Reading Mastery in Practice
The SRA Reading Mastery approach is highly structured and sequential. The program includes a set of scripted lessons and materials that teachers can follow step-by-step. The lessons are divided into stages, and each stage builds on the previous one. The program is designed in a way that assessment and data analysis are integrated, which helps the teacher to determine whether the student is ready to move on to the next stage.
Conclusion
Reading is an essential skill that lays the foundation for learning. The SRA Reading Mastery program provides explicit instruction, systematic review, and positive reinforcement, which make it an effective approach for teaching reading skills. Students who receive instruction through the SRA Reading Mastery program have achieved a high level of success in reading, making it the best approach for teaching reading skills.
