The Science of Reading: Your Complete Guide to Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction

As educators across the nation grapple with alarming literacy rates, science of reading training has emerged as a beacon of hope. This evidence-based approach to reading instruction, grounded in decades of cognitive science research, is revolutionizing how we teach children to read. If you’re ready to transform your classroom with science of reading courses that provide proven strategies that actually work, this comprehensive guide will show you the path forward through our science of reading professional development options.

What Is the Science of Reading?

The Science of Reading isn’t a curriculum or program—it’s a vast body of scientifically-based research about how people learn to read. This research, conducted over the last 50+ years by experts in psychology, linguistics, and neuroscience, has revealed crucial insights about how the brain processes written language.

Unlike the outdated “whole language” approach that dominated classrooms for decades, the Science of Reading recognizes that reading isn’t natural like speaking. It must be explicitly taught through systematic instruction in five essential components: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Our science of reading teacher training programs ensure you master all five components.

Why Science of Reading Training Matters Now More Than Ever

Recent national assessments show that only 35% of fourth-graders read proficiently. This crisis demands immediate action. States across the country are mandating science of reading classes  for educators. But beyond compliance, this training offers something invaluable: the tools to truly help every child become a confident reader.

When teachers complete comprehensive science of reading courses, they can:

• Identify why specific students struggle
• Implement targeted interventions that work
• Prevent reading difficulties before they become entrenched
• Support diverse learners with evidence-based strategies

Four Essential Areas of Science of Reading Professional Development

1. Reading Foundations

Understanding how the brain learns to read is fundamental. This science of reading training covers the neurological basis of reading, the critical importance of phonemic awareness, and how to build strong decoding skills through systematic phonics instruction. You’ll learn why some traditional practices actually hinder reading development and what to do instead.

2. Instructional Practices in Reading

Theory means nothing without practical application. This area focuses on implementing the five pillars of reading through explicit, systematic instruction. You’ll master strategies for teaching phonics patterns, building fluency through repeated reading, and developing vocabulary through morphology and context.

3. Assessment Strategies for Reading

Effective instruction requires ongoing assessment. Learn to use screening tools like DIBELS, implement progress monitoring, and apply Response to Intervention (RTI) principles. You’ll discover how to identify dyslexia indicators and support struggling readers with targeted interventions.

4. Reading and Writing in Content Areas

Literacy extends beyond English class. This training shows how to integrate reading comprehension strategies across all subjects, teach academic vocabulary, and help students navigate complex informational texts. You’ll learn to build background knowledge and make cross-curricular connections.

Flexible Science of Reading Certificate or Transcript Options for Every Educator

We understand that teachers have different needs and schedules. That’s why we offer multiple pathways to Science of Reading expertise:

Quick-Start Options (5-10 hours): Perfect for targeting specific skills or meeting immediate requirements Comprehensive Training (15-60 hours): Deep dive into all aspects of evidence-based reading instruction Graduate Credit Courses (1-3 credits): Advance your career while transforming your practice.

All science of reading professional development courses are 100% online, self-paced, and available for immediate enrollment. As a recommended and approved provider in many states, our courses meet state requirements while exceeding expectations for practical, classroom-ready content.

What Makes Our Science of Reading Teacher Training Different

Unlike generic professional development, our science of reading courses are designed by  educators who understand classroom realities. Every assignment has practical application—you’ll create materials, design lessons, and practice strategies you can use immediately. Our participants consistently report that these  100% online science of reading courses fundamentally change how they teach reading.

Recent course completers share:

• “I finally understand WHY my struggling readers weren’t improving with the old methods.”
• “The assessment strategies helped me identify three students with dyslexia indicators I had missed.”
• “My entire grade level team enrolled after seeing my students’ progress.”

Take Action: Transform Your Reading Instruction Today

The research is clear: explicit, systematic instruction based on the Science of Reading helps all students, especially those who struggle. Whether you’re new to teaching or a veteran educator, this science of reading training will enhance your effectiveness and confidence in teaching reading.

Whether you have a mandate or are being proactive in seeking the best for your students. Explore our comprehensive Science of Reading courses and choose the format that fits your professional development goals. Your students deserve instruction based on science, not guesswork.

Ready to begin? Explore our science of reading professional development options and join thousands of educators leading the literacy revolution.

Schools and Districts: Visit ConnectedPD.com for group enrollment options and special pricing.

About the Author
Ellen Paxton is a respected expert in education and best known as the Chief Learning Officer of Professional Learning Board. As a two-time National Board Certified Teacher, Ellen has successfully published and customized online professional development courses and Learning Management Systems for 20 years to help teachers meet their state continuing education renewal credit requirements. Through ProfessionalLearningBoard.com, RenewaTeachingLicense.com, and ConnectedPD.com, Ellen has established solutions and maintained partnerships with several accredited universities, higher education institutions, teachers’ unions and state Departments of Education while setting strategic direction that makes a difference and overseeing implementation of popular online PD for schools.