Ignite Literacy Services

A stance and a writing activity

My friends, I had not intended to discuss this controversial subject at this particular time. However, I want you to know that I do not shun controversy. On the contrary, I will take a stand on any issue at any time, regardless of how fraught with controversy it might be. You have asked me how I feel about the science of reading. All right, here is how I feel about the science of reading.

If when you say the science of reading you mean a new dogma, a divisive doctrine, or five holy and complete principles that need no further research; if you mean it as a label that categorizes entire careers, researchers, and bodies of work as either compliant or harmful, that turns teachers to regret and shame, that is satisfied with itself and is resistant to change, that overemphasizes a singular aspect of reading while devaluing others, that is misguided by memes and trite remarks on social media, then certainly I am against it.

If by the science of reading you mean an invitation to reflect, a willingness to improve, and encouragement to stay curious; if you mean an honest appraisal of reading research, acknowledging and implementing best practices that are proven to be effective while leaving space for future research and our experience to guide us while we grow as teachers; if you mean researched-based methodologies that enable students to read effectively while showing them why becoming literate matters; if you mean the best pathway to empower students, the key to social mobility, access to the life-changing code that connects us with ourselves and others, that offers windows, mirrors, and doors to depth, perspective, and the richness of life, then certainly I am for it.

This is my stand. I will not retreat from it. I will not compromise.

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This post used “The Whisky Speech” by Noah S. Sweat as a mentor text. This is a great way to get older students to consider different perspectives and craft a piece of writing about a controversial issue in a light yet powerful way.

I chose to copy the entire first and last paragraphs, because I wanted it to be immediately recognizable by those familiar with the original speech, but you could model how to put them in your own words if you wish.

Try it out in your classroom and let me know how it goes, or your share thoughts about the science of reading in the comments below.

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