There’s been a lot of coverage recently in the media regarding Structured Literacy. If you are eager to understand more about this teaching approach take a closer look at the above poster. This graphic clearly shows the key fundamental elements that underpin both Structured Literacy and Balanced Literacy.

❌ Balanced Literacy: A method combining Whole Language and phonics instruction, emphasising immersion in books and focusing on understanding meaning over decoding. 

✅ Structured Literacy: A scientifically backed approach to reading, teaching the language's structure through diagnostic, explicit, systematic, and cumulative instruction. 

From the moment our children reach school entry, the approach we need to ensure we don’t leave reading to chance is one that is based on science and evidence. Like all approaches, the quality and explicit nature of teaching in a Structured Literacy approach is a key factor in determining increased student outcomes.