Mr. Greg, why do you use decodable readers? is a question we’ve been asked so today we’re sharing how and why we use decodable readers as part of the TKS BOOTCAMP Curriculum.
Decodable Readers: District Mandates
As teachers, we all want to grow and improve our craft. I don’t think I’m ever very good at teaching but I am always open to learn and grow and try new things. In our district, we had a few years where the push was all guided reading. Over the last two years, that push has switched from guided reading to explicit phonics instruction. This move allowed us more freedom and flexibility with our small group instruction time. We could now do phonics based small groups as well as pull guided reading groups.
During this time, we were also being pushed to use decodable readers with our groups. This was a bit new for me (I knew about decodable texts and had used them some, but to focus on them was new…) because our focus had been on guided reading with leveled texts. In order to continue using our TKS BOOTCAMP curriculum as our phonics curriculum, we needed to add decodable readers. So that is why the decodable readers were added.
Decodable Readers: Why?
One of the biggest keys for students success as readers is confidence. Decodable readers help boost the confidence of our readers. And if a child feels like a reader, they will be better readers. Decodable readers or text allow students to decode words and be a successful reader. Because decodable readers contain so much decodable text it allows students to apply and practice the phonics skills we’ve taught in whole group lessons during our BOOTCAMP phonics time. Decodable readers are a key part of the systematic, explicit phonics instruction that helps our students succeed as readers and writers!
Decodable Readers: The Features
When I created and wrote our decodable readers, I wanted to include decodable text as well as some text that students could use their other reading strategies to figure out (context clues, inference, looking at pictures, etc). And because the focus is on decoding words, the books are written to be silly and non-sensical. Our decodable readers are not meant for comprehension.
On the front cover, we included the phonics skill we’re teaching. This allows a very quick review or refreshers of the skill.
For each decodable reader, there are four options: there is a simpler version and a more challenging version. Each version is available in color or blackline. This gives you some options when working with students so you’re better able to meet their needs as readers.
At the end of the decodable reader is a writing page. Here students can apply their phonics skills to write the words. All of the words contain the focus skill or pattern.
Decodable Readers In Action
Check out these videos to see our decodable readers in action!
TKS BOOTCAMP CURRICULUM
The decodable readers are included in our TKS BOOTCAMP curriculum which is a systematic, explicit, research based, classroom proven phonics and math curriculum. For more on TKS BOOTCAMP, visit our TKS BOOTCAMP page!
For more information and to purchase the TKS BOOTCAMP CURRICULUM, click the image below!
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7 comments
How do you know which level decodable your groups need? Is the a skill progression?
It’s based on observations during whole group instruction. I pull the groups based on who needs more practice and they’d get the less challenging decodable reader. Those who are doing well with the skill get a more challenging version. This varies from each phonics skill. So there is no progression because it’s all based on student ability with each skill.
I love using decodables for my GR groups and, for me, I definitely think there is a progression (not necessarily a fluid or linear one, though)! Usually I start with CVC words (continuous sounds, then stop sounds), quickly progressing to CVCs with an & am chunks, followed by words with either blends & common digraphs, then bossy e, and finally the trickier welded sounds. For guided reading, I try to make sure the books are about 1 level above my student’s independent reading level, so that they’re able to read it, but with challenge. Each phonics skill is introduced in whole group, and those who excel move onto new skills, those who struggle focus on reteaching in GR sessions.
Is there any way to purchase the decodable readers by themselves?
I’m sorry, they are only available as part of the Bootcamp creations.
I just watched your Elevate sessions. Loved them all by the way. However, I am looking for your letter strips you use in small group that are on binder rings. I have looked everywhere on your site. Do you have those to print or buy?
They are available only as part of the Small Group Tool Kit which is only included in our Small Group Bundle. Here is a link: https://thekindergartensmorgasboardstore.com/products/webinar-bundle-small-group-tools?variant=33379341336709