What works

Treatment & Remediation

With research-based instruction delivered by trained instructors at the right intensity, even those with severe dyslexia can master reading, writing and spelling at any age. 

In its milestone report of 2000, the National Reading Panel identified the characteristics of effective instructional approaches that work for all learners. In a nutshell, the Panel recognized that good reading instruction is simply good reading instruction, regardless if a student struggles with reading or not. The Panel identified scientifically based reading instruction (SBRI) that includes:

• a foundational knowledge of the structure of the English language (incorporates the rules of the English language);
• the 5 components of effective instruction—phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension;
• is multi-sensory (utilizing varied sensory components such as touch or audio);
• is sequential (builds skills sequentially);
• is systematic.

Individuals with dyslexia, or those simply struggling to read, require scientifically based direct instruction that complements their unique learning needs and styles. Early intervention and the intensity of the instruction is critical; however, all individuals can learn to read at any age.

Five components of reading instruction

According to the National Institute for Literacy, the five components of effective reading instruction include:

Phonemic awareness
the ability to notice, think about and work with the individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken words

Phonics
the relationships between the letters (graphemes) of written language and the individual sounds (phonemes) of spoken language. Phonics instruction teaches learners to use these relationships to use and write words.

Fluency
the ability to read a text accurately and quickly. When fluent readers read: silently, they automatically recognize words automatically; they group words quickly to help them gain meaning from what they read; and, they read aloud effortlessly and with expression. Fluency is important because it provides a bridge between word recognition and comprehension.

Vocabulary
includes the words we must know to communicate effectively. Vocabulary is also very important to reading comprehension. Readers cannot understand what they are reading without knowing what most of the words mean. Learning to read more advanced texts means readers must learn the meaning of new words that are not part of their oral vocabulary.

Comprehension
is the reason for reading. If readers can read the words but do not understand their meaning, they are not really reading. Good readers are both purposeful (they have a reason to read) and active (they think to make sense of what they read).

Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading
The International Dyslexia Association is pleased to announce a major new document entitled Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading. The document will serve as our guide in endorsing programs that prepare teachers of reading and/or programs that specialize in preparing teachers to work with students who have reading difficulties and disabilities.

One of IDA’s long-term goals is to inform the public regarding the knowledge base required for skilled reading instruction. Another is to define the specific teaching capabilities that should characterize any person responsible for teaching students with dyslexia and related reading difficulties, and to identify programs that meet the standards. We invite you to review the document and we hope that you will partner with us in promoting high standards for comprehensive and rigorous training of teachers.

Click here to view the Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading

Additional IDA Facts Sheets

Dyslexia Treatment Programs
Multisensory Structured Language Teaching
A Parent's Guide to Effective Instruction
Evaluating Educational Professionals
Attention-Deficity/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyslexia
Understanding Dysgraphia
Spelling
Orton-Gillingham-based and Multisensory Level Approaches to Education