13. What is Structured Literacy?

What is Structured Literacy, exactly? Let’s take a deep dive into this research-based instructional approach rooted in the Science of Reading. We’ll unpack the guiding principles and elements of Structured Literacy, explain how it differs from Balanced Literacy, and share why it’s so effective for teaching all students—especially those with dyslexia or other reading challenges. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of how Structured Literacy sets students up for lifelong success.Key Takeaways:Structured Literacy vs. Balanced LiteracyGuiding Principles of Structured Literacy: Systematic, Cumulative, Explicit, DiagnosticThe Five Elements of Structured LiteracyWhy Structured Literacy MattersResources Mentioned:Structured Literacy - outlined by the IDAThe Ladder of Reading Infographic by Nancy YoungBook: Climbing The Ladder of Reading & Writing: Meeting the Needs of ALL Learners by Nancy Young & Jan HasbrouckLETRS TrainingBook: Uncovering the Logic of English by Denise EideThis post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!Connect with Michelle:Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comFollow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomFor Phonics Resources, grab: The COLORFUL Phonics ToolkitWant to Support the Podcast?Make a Donation to Support ProductionInterested in Learning More about Morphology?Logos Literacy Academy with Michelle Sullivan & Sarah PaulJoin: Beyond Phonics Club - our Membership CommunityMentioned in this episode:SOR Fall Book Study Join us: https://colorful-classroom.mykajabi.com/sor-fall-book-study-2026Reading Science AcademyGet your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color