About Structured Literacy

A Structured Literacy approach will be:

Explicit

In structured literacy instruction, the teacher explains each concept directly and clearly, providing guided practice. Lessons embody instructional routines, for example, quick practice drills to build fluency, or the use of fingers to tap out sounds before spelling words. The student applies each new concept to reading and writing words and text, under direct supervision of the teacher who gives immediate feedback and guidance. Students are not expected to discover or intuit language concepts simply from exposure to language or reading.

Systematic and cumulative

In a structured literacy approach, the teacher teaches language concepts systematically, explaining how each element fits into the whole. Instruction follows a planned scope and sequence of skills that progresses from easier to more difficult. One concept builds on another. The goal of systematic teaching is automatic and fluent application of language knowledge to reading for meaning.

Hands-on, engaging, and multimodal

Methods often include hands-on learning such as moving tiles into sound boxes as words are analysed, using hand gestures to support memory for associations, building words with letter tiles, assembling sentences with words on cards, color-coding sentences in paragraphs, and so forth. Listening, speaking, reading, and writing are often paired with one another to foster multimodal language learning.

Diagnostic and responsive

The teacher uses student response patterns to adjust pacing, presentation, and amount of practice given within the lesson framework. The teacher monitors progress through observation and brief quizzes that measure retention of what has been taught.

A structured literacy approach is one that is informed by a large body of research called The Science of Reading.

The science of reading is a vast, interdisciplinary body of scientifically-based research about reading and issues related to reading and writing.

This research has been conducted over the last five decades across the world, and it is derived from thousands of studies conducted in multiple languages. The science of reading has culminated in a preponderance of evidence to inform how proficient reading and writing develop; why some have difficulty; and how we can most effectively assess and teach and, therefore, improve student outcomes through prevention of and intervention for reading difficulties.

The Reading League

How Structured Literacy Aligns with The New Zealand Curriculum (NZC) & Te Mātaiaho
✅ Supports the Literacy & Communication Strategy – Ensures all students develop strong foundational literacy skills, essential for success across the curriculum.
✅ Explicit, Systematic Teaching – Aligns with Te Mātaiaho’s focus on clear, structured learning progressions, ensuring students build skills step by step.
✅ Equity & Inclusion – Provides an evidence-based approach that supports all learners, including those with diverse needs, aligning with NZC’s commitment to inclusive education.

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