The Science of Reading Academy

The Science of Reading Academy is a free 6-module, 28 video course that takes teachers through a self-paced journey of exploring science of reading research and frameworks, applying science-backed strategies to teaching decoding, shaping language developement, and executing an SOR approach in your classroom.

Explore the Modules

Defining the Science of Reading

As educators, you’ve likely encountered the term “Science of Reading,” but its meaning can sometimes be unclear.

In Module 1, we will offer a comprehensive overview of what experts define as the “Science of Reading,” clarifying common misconceptions along the way.

We’ll also delve into the tumultuous history of reading instruction, exploring the pedagogical shifts that have shaped our current practices.

Finally, we will assess our current reality in reading education and discuss potential next steps for improvement.

Exploring Reading Models

In Module 2, we will delve into various models of reading, each with practical implications for your teaching.

We’ll start with Gough and Tunmer’s simple view of reading, a model that simplifies reading into two key components: decoding and comprehension.

Next, we’ll explore Scarborough’s Reading Rope, a model that weaves together multiple strands of reading skills to illustrate the complexity of proficient reading.

We’ll then cover the four-part processing model, which outlines the cognitive processes involved in recognizing words and constructing meaning.

Finally, we’ll discuss the most recent model, the active view of reading, which underscores the dynamic and interactive nature of the reading process. These lessons will equip you with the knowledge to inform your effective reading instruction.

Investigating the Reading Brain

In Module 3, we will investigate the fascinating processes of the reading brain. We will start by exploring the brain’s reading regions and identify which areas are involved in the reading circuit.

Next, we will examine neuroplasticity and how the brain’s ability to reorganize itself impacts reading development and instruction.

Finally, we will discuss the self-teaching hypothesis, which explains how children can rapidly learn to read independently once they grasp key concepts. These lessons provide a comprehensive understanding of the neurological foundations that underpin effective reading instruction, giving you a deep insight into the brain’s role in reading.

The Road to Decoding

In Module 4, we will explore the integral components that combine to produce skilled decoders. We will begin with the importance of word recognition and its foundational role in reading. Ehri’s phases will help us understand where students are developmentally on their journey to becoming skilled readers.

We will discuss the important foundational understandings we must facilitate for our early readers, including phonemic awareness and the alphabetic principle.

We will then explore orthographic mapping, the process our brain uses to store words in long-term memory. We will discuss how orthographic mapping can apply to any word students read, including high-frequency words.

Finally, we will look at decodable texts and their importance in providing accountable practice with phonics skills. These lessons will equip educators with a comprehensive understanding of the decoding process in reading instruction.

Supporting Language Development

In Module 5, we’ll explore the “top half” of Scarborough’s Reading Rope as we discuss all things language comprehension.

First, we’ll discuss the importance of building background knowledge, highlighting how our prior experiences and knowledge shape our understanding of what we read. We will unpack how the structure and meaning of language influence our comprehension.

Finally, we’ll focus on developing fluency, examining how fluency can be a vital bridging process to reading comprehension. These discussions will provide educators with valuable insights into fostering effective language comprehension skills in their students.

Executing an SOR Approach

In Module 6, our focus is on practical implementation. Each lesson will focus on five key essentials educators need to translate the research into practice.

We’ll explore the key essentials for word recognition, language comprehension, sound walls, supporting ELL students, and literacy assessments.

Through these discussions, educators will gain valuable insights and practical tools for implementing a science of reading approach in their classroom.

What Teachers are Saying About the Academy

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Science of Reading Academy Bonuses
Science of Reading Academy Bonuses
Science of Reading Academy Bonuses
Science of Reading Academy Bonuses
Science of Reading Academy Bonuses
Science of Reading Academy Bonuses

Meet the team behind the Science of Reading Academy

Anna DiGilio

Anna DiGilio is the Founder and CEO of Laprea Education. Anna incorporates her 23 years of classroom experience; her knowledge, expertise, and degree in curriculum development; and her professional trainings in reading instruction and special education to help teachers learn how to implement rigorous and effective small-group reading instruction into their classroom easily and effectively. The goal of her in-depth Structured Literacy with E.A.S.E. curriculum is to provide teachers with the tools they need to effectively teach children to learn the English code and bridge the gap to Reading for Meaning.

Dr. Lindsey Conner

Dr. Lindsey Conner is a dedicated educator committed to integrating research-backed practices into classrooms. With nine years of experience in public education, she has served as a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, and educational speaker. Lindsey holds a Doctorate of Education, with her research concentrating on structured literacy. Currently, she serves as a Curriculum Writer for Laprea Education, where she focuses on professional development, ensuring educators are equipped with the latest insights and strategies for effective teaching.

Dr. Ashley Haase

Dr. Ashley Haase has worked in education since 2010, serving as a classroom teacher, technology coach, innovation coach, curriculum writer, and higher education instructor. Ashley has worked for LaPrea Education since 2019. She currently serves as the Director of Curriculum, leading a team of education professionals to bring new products and resources to reading classrooms around the world.

Dr. Danelle Conner

Dr. Danelle Conner has dedicated over 20 years to the field of education, specializing in curriculum and instruction. Her extensive career includes roles as a teacher, curriculum director, principal, and chief academic officer, working with educators and school leaders in the United States and internationally.  Throughout her career, Danelle has been committed to Title I schools, recognizing the vital need for high-quality reading materials and effective instructional practices. In her role at Laprea Education, Danelle focuses on aligning Structured Literacy with E.A.S.E with state standards,  In addition, she develops resources that highlight Science of Reading strategies that can be easily integrated into instruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Science of Reading Academy is a 6-module, 28-video course that takes teachers through the journey of exploring science of reading research and frameworks, applying science-backed strategies to teach decoding, shaping language development, and executing an SOR approach in your classroom. The purpose of this course is to help teachers learn about the science of reading and to give you practical tips for implementing practices in your classroom that align with the science.

Yes, you will receive a Laprea branded certificate of completion for PD hours.

Anna DiGilio, the founder and C.E.O. of Laprea Education has been in the educational publishing space since 2012.

The course is 7 hours and includes 6 modules (28 videos) of content. You can move through the course at your own pace.

Yes, the course is free! There are note guides available for download as well as incredible bonus content with each module. You do have the option to purchase a separate workbook through Amazon. This workbook comes with video transcripts, note guides, bonus content, and discussion questions and activities that teams and schools can use. This is a great option for both individual teachers taking the course as well as schools and teams that are using the course for professional development.

I totally hear that! That’s why we’ve structured our Science of Reading Academy to give you maximum results in minimum time. Every single module and resource inside the program gives you the “need to know” info and strategies needed to make the most of the time you have. With some subtle tweaks and “why did nobody teach me this??!” advice, you’ll be amazed by how much more spacious and streamlined your teaching time feels! This is truly a gift to your students and your future self.

And if life is a little hectic right now, no problem! You can devour the entire program in a couple of sittings or work through everything in little bites and take as much time as you need. You will have lifetime access to the materials, so you can choose a pace that suits you.

Though there are downloadable note guides and incredible bonus content provided for free throughout the course, you have the option to purchase a separate workbook through Amazon. This workbook comes with video transcripts, note guides, bonus content, and discussion questions and activities that teams and schools can use. This is a great option for both individual teachers taking the course as well as schools and teams that are using the course for professional development.

CLICK THE LINK TO PURCHASE:

The Science of Reading Academy Workbook 

Science of Reading Academy Bonus Materials

YES! The Science of Reading Academy is the perfect companion to any curriculum and will assist you with an effective and streamlined approach to teaching structured literacy.

What you’ll learn in this course is a framework for making structured literacy work for you, no matter which curriculum or teaching material you’re already using.

No problem, reach out to our amazing service team at info@structuredliteracy.com, and they’ll be able to assist you with almost anything you need!