Structured Literacy

All learners have the right to achieve mastery in literacy through evidence-based literacy instruction.

Sun West supports building literacy for all because all learners have the right to achieve mastery in literacy through evidence-based literacy instruction.

Structured Literacy is a science-based, structured approach to literacy instruction. It provides explicit, systematic, engaging, multisensory, and developmentally appropriate instruction. It teaches students the key skills to become efficient and accurate decoders. These skills lead not only to strong word identification but also to deeper text comprehension.

The Transfer of Responsibility is leveraged throughout the implementation of Structured Literacy, allowing students to control all the skills they are capable of controlling and supporting them appropriately until they are ready to use the skills independently.

• ‍Lab Classrooms – Through this initiative, teachers are able to participate in professional learning and collaboration. Visits to lab classrooms can be arranged through the Sun West Structured Literacy Consultant.‍
• Grades 1-3 – All Grades 1-3 classrooms implement Structured Literacy instruction.‍
• Grade 4-6 – During the 2024-2025 school year, all Grades 4-6 teachers will be receiving professional development and training to begin implementing Structured Literacy practices. ‍
• Acadience – Teachers may select Acadiance assessments instead of DRA. Contact the Structured Literacy Consultant for more information.  Refer to the assessment page for additional information. ‍
• Structured Literacy Team – Teachers can access additional resources through the Sun West Structured Literacy Team. Contact the Structured Literacy Consultant for access.

For more information contact Pam Sawatzky, Learning Consultant (Structured Literacy)at pam.sawatzky@sunwestsd.ca

Key Resources

Structured Literacy 101

Administrator Look For Document