Effective Teaching

12 Essentials for Phonics Success

September 9, 2025| Posted in Literacy, Best Practices| Benchmark Education| 2183

As districts nationwide grapple with implementing Science of Reading research, education leaders face critical decisions about phonics instruction. This blog identifies 12 essential elements every high-quality phonics solution should include—crucial factors that can transform literacy outcomes from modest improvements to remarkable success. Discover the key components that align with evidence-based practices and help you make informed decisions to significantly enhance reading proficiency across your school or district.

Designated & Integrated ELD: Complementary Paths to Language Proficiency

September 9, 2025| Posted in Literacy, Best Practices| Benchmark Education| 2220

This blog examines how Designated and Integrated English Language Development work together to support English Learners. Readers will discover the key differences between these complementary approaches and learn practical strategies to implement both effectively for enhanced language acquisition and academic success.

10 Effective Ways to Help English Learners Excel with Grade-Level Content

February 14, 2025| Posted in Literacy, Best Practices| Silvia Dorta-Duque de Reyes, Ed. M.| 4126

Discover 10 effective strategies to help English Learners succeed with grade-level content. Learn how to use primary language resources, visual supports, and strategic grouping to bridge language and content learning, creating an inclusive classroom where ELs thrive.

Systematic, Explicit Instruction and Implicit Learning: Finding the Balance

September 10, 2024| Posted in Literacy, Best Practices| Jan Hasbrouck, Ph.D. and Nancy Young, Ed.D.| 8332

Research is clear - instruction that incorporates systematically designed and explicit instruction along with opportunities for implicit learning is most effective. Drs. Jan Hasbrouck and Nancy Young break down these terms and provide authentic examples of how to appropriately include them in literacy instruction to ensure optimal student outcomes.