In order to set readers up for success and facilitate a love of reading, beginner readers need 2 types of texts:
decodable texts they can read
language-rich texts that we read to them
Decodable stories
Designed for readers to master decoding and the alphabetic principle.
Designed around practicing specific letter-sounds at word-level and sentence-level, segmenting words into sounds, and making connections between spelling and meaning.
Text is quite restricted, employing only learned letter-sounds. Therefore sentences seem less natural and less complex (compared to spoken language or language-rich texts).
Follow a cumulative scope and sequence.
Designed for reading success and accomplishment.
Language-rich texts
(authentic texts)
Contains words your reader cannot read yet, but can understand.
Allows for rich language, interesting facts, ideas and vocabulary.
The flow of the sentences is more natural and varied.
Designed to increase engagement, knowledge and interest.
Teachers call this text “read-aloud”, as a parent, teacher, friend, or grandparent can read aloud to your child — any book that interests them.
you can read integrates these two types of texts into each book:
A page of language-rich fun facts starts each book, creating interest and giving context to each story.
Decodable text allows your reader to successfully practice specific sound spellings at word level and sentence level in meaningful and entertaining stories.
