Science of Reading Strategies: What They Are and How to Use Them in Your Classroom.

What Is the Science of Reading?

The Science of Reading (SoR) refers to decades of research in education, cognitive science, and linguistics. This body of work shows how students learn to read and what kinds of instruction are most effective.

It confirms that reading is not acquired naturally. It must be taught explicitly, systematically, and with intention. Effective reading instruction includes five core components:

• Phonemic awareness
• Phonics
• Fluency
• Vocabulary
• Comprehension

These components are most effective when taught consistently and aligned to what we know about how the brain processes print and language.

Why the Science of Reading Matters

When teachers understand how reading works at a foundational level, they can better support all learners. Evidence-based reading practices help educators teach in ways that are purposeful and impactful—especially for students who need extra support.

At Instructional Intensity Inc., we don’t just provide information. We walk alongside educators as partners. Through classroom-based support, lesson planning, and coaching, we help schools bring this research to life.

Science of Reading Strategies That Work

Here are five high-impact strategies educators across Wyoming are using to strengthen reading instruction:

1. Build Phonemic Awareness Daily

Use short, engaging oral routines where students focus on the sounds in words.
Try this: Ask students to identify the first sound in a word, swap one sound for another, or stretch out a word orally before writing it.

2. Teach Phonics in a Clear Sequence

Phonics instruction should build from simple to more complex letter-sound relationships.
Try this: Teach one or two new patterns at a time. Use decodable texts that align with your scope and sequence.

3. Prioritize Vocabulary Development

Choose words intentionally and teach them with visuals, examples, and student-friendly explanations.
Try this: Highlight 3–5 key words before reading a text. Use them in discussion, writing, and comprehension tasks.

4. Practice Fluency with a Purpose

Fluency includes accuracy, expression, and understanding—not just speed.
Try this: Use repeated reading, partner practice, or poetry. Model fluent reading, then give students time to try it.

5. Focus on Comprehension Through Discussion

Strong comprehension develops through conversation, evidence-based reasoning, and multiple readings.
Try this: Ask students to explain their thinking with prompts like “What makes you think that?” or “Can you show me where in the text?”

Science of Reading in Wyoming Classrooms

Every school is different, and so is every classroom. That’s why our support is never one-size-fits-all.

Instructional Intensity Inc. tailors its work to meet the needs of schools and districts across Wyoming. Whether you're a small rural campus or a growing district, we help you make sense of the research and apply it in a way that fits your setting.

Start Small, Grow Consistently

No one implements every Science of Reading strategy at once. Real change happens when teachers feel supported, have time to reflect, and can refine their practice step by step.

Our team helps build that momentum. Whether you’re strengthening Tier 1 instruction or designing interventions, we’ll support your growth with clarity and consistency.

Let’s Strengthen Reading Instruction Together

If your school is exploring the Science of Reading or refining its current practices, we’d love to connect.

Contact us here to schedule a consultation

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