In early literacy, applying the science of reading involves which approach?

• A. Systematic phonics instruction to teach letter-sound correspondences and decoding skills, along with multisensory activities
• B. Rote memorization of sight words only
• C. Grammatically focused rewriting
• D. Silent reading with no instruction

Answer: (A)

The science of reading in early literacy emphasizes explicit, systematic phonics instruction that teaches how letters relate to sounds and how to decode unfamiliar words, often reinforced with multisensory activities. This approach helps children map sounds to letters, blend sounds into words, and practice decoding in a structured, cumulative way, which builds strong word recognition and spelling over time. Multisensory activities—using sight, sound, and touch—reinforce memory of letter-sound relationships and support learners who benefit from different learning channels.

Relying solely on memorizing sight words doesn’t develop the decoding system or phonemic awareness that underpins flexible reading, so it falls short of what the science of reading promotes. Focusing on grammar or rewriting doesn’t address decoding skills or how children learn to read new words. Silent reading with no instruction lacks the guided practice and explicit instruction shown to be effective for building early reading foundations.