Distinguishing Characteristics

Research-based with over ten years of data collected and analyzed from school districts implementing the program.

A systematic and cumulative approach to teach total word structure for decoding and encoding designed for students beyond grade three, adolescents, and adults.

Includes extensive controlled text (wordlists, sentences, and stories) for application of skills and fluency.

Uses a unique "sound tapping" system early in the program to help the student learn to differentiate the phonemes (speech sounds) in a word. This technique is used for both segmenting and blending sounds.

The scope and sequence emphasizes six types of syllables.

Coding of words is more limited than some programs; emphasis is primarily on application, coding is used as reinforcement.

There is less emphasis on overwhelming students with the language of rules and more emphasis on the understanding and fluent application of the rules.

Uses a simplified method of syllable division with penciling technique used for tracking.

Teaches all concepts throughout the program with the manipulation of cards (sound cards, syllable cards, and suffix cards).

Fluency is emphasized from the beginning.

The commitment to implementation extends beyond fast "in and out" workshops.

The program is comprehensive; it is designed to follow students from one grade to the next, as needed.

Criterion-based assessment built into the program measures student progress and success.