In this the first Module of The Science of Reading we learn about The Simple View of reading. Ironically enough it boils down to a mathematical equation: Reading = Decoding x Comprehension (R = D x C)
Decoding is the ability to see a word in print and use that to retrieve the word from our mental dictionary. In order for that to happen we need to be able to orthographically map. Orthographic mapping is the process of sorting words into our learn-term memory, turning unknown printed words into automatically recognizable words. Each of these words have meaning. Once a word is mapped this word becomes a sight word.
Comprehension is broken into two areas; spoken and written (reading). Spoken comprehension is the ability to understand spoken phrases, sentences and narrative that are received orally. Written or reading comprehension are the same skills but applied to print.
Code related skills include concepts about print, phonological awareness, letter knowledge and reading fluency. These concepts read to word decoding and spelling this in turn leads to word recognition and spelling.
Numbers that were quoted in the module are quite shocking. This reading states that over 50% of code related skills are typically taught in grade 1 curriculum. And that 30% of students entering grade 1 are at least a full year behind their same age peers and thus fail at their first attempt in reading. Because of these numbers we have to use a skill-based approach rather than a grade-based approach. Teachers should focus on assessing foundational reading skills that their students possess and actively teach the skills that enable them to become proficient readers.
Reading disabilities can be distilled down to three categories; 1) inability to code, 2) inability to comprehend or 3) both.
The simple view of reading asserts that both decoding and comprehension are essential
My big takeaways from this module is that I need to focus on a skill-based approach to teach reading, As well, decoding and comprehension are both required for the process to be called “reading.”
That's My View From the 86th Pew,
Michelle
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