Overview
Overview of Elementary Reading
The structured literacy program in Central Bucks includes explicit instruction of strategies and skills, guided practice, and independent application in the following areas:
- Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, and Word Study
- Fluency
- Vocabulary
- Comprehension
Students at all levels read a wide array of genres and texts that are related to content area topics. The reading program includes: building background knowledge, vocabulary development, shared reading, explicit skill and strategy instruction in large and small group, and independent reading. The development of reading comprehension strategies is a key aspect of instruction at all grade levels and continues into middle and high schools.
At the primary levels, direct instruction of phonemic awareness and phonics skills are a critical component of the reading program. Direct instruction and practice to develop reading fluency is also emphasized at these grades.
Standards & Courses of Study
The elementary reading courses of study have been designed to meet the Pennsylvania Common Core State Standards for reading. K-12 Learning Principles and Enduring Understandings and Essential Questions guide the course of study development and instruction in the classroom (links below).