What is the importance of explicit instruction in reading?

Explicit instruction is crucial in reading because it delivers clear and direct teaching of specific skills and strategies, which are essential for developing proficient reading abilities. This method involves breaking down complex concepts into manageable parts and providing step-by-step guidance, ensuring that students not only understand what they are learning but also know how to apply it effectively.

For instance, when teaching phonemic awareness or decoding strategies, explicit instruction ensures that students receive systematic information about these skills, including modeling and the opportunity for guided practice. This approach minimizes ambiguity, allows for immediate feedback, and helps students to solidify their understanding, making it easier for them to transfer their skills to independent reading situations.

By focusing on specific skills and strategies, explicit instruction also caters to diverse learning styles and can be adjusted to meet the individual needs of students, thereby promoting overall literacy development.