Be specific.

Neuroplasticity Principle #3

In Neuroplasticity Principle number 3, we look at how being specific with what we teach and how we teach, affects the plasticity of the brain (Centre for Independence). 

The type of literacy instruction experience for all learners will dictate the nature of the change in the brain (plasticity). We say all learners, as it is well known that the approach or instruction experience that works best for the way the brain likes to learn to read, write, and spell is through Structured Literacy. To coin a phrase, it is crucial for some, and necessary for all. In order to positively dictate the plasticity of the brain in regard to literacy, we need to make sure we are specific about what we teach.  

Structured Literacy prepares learners to read words in an explicit and systematic way (Reading Rockets, 2023). It is cumulative, which means each step is based on concepts that have previously been learned. There is plenty of time allowed to fold back to skills not yet secure, and teachers adapt their teaching to work to the learner’s specific literacy and learning needs (Reading Rockets, 2023).

The elements of Structured Literacy instruction are comprised of Phonology, Sound to Symbol Recognition, Syllable Instruction, Morphology, Syntax, and Semantics (Reading  Rockets, 2023).