You may have a reading programme already implemented in your school but when you’re asked what your
programme is like, what do you say? An effective reading programme is more than just a textbook. It should
include teaching knowledge about reading and the skills and strategies to read well.
In 1997, the National Reading Panel (NRP) was convened in the United States to research into the components of
effective reading instruction. The NRP published its findings in 2000 and from this report, five significant
components of effective reading instruction were identified. These include:
- phonemic awareness
- phonics
- fluency
- vocabulary
- comprehension
Although this research was targeted at native speakers and not second language learners (ESL) and foreign
language learners (EFL), subsequent synthesis of the research findings suggested four important
recommendations (August, as cited in Irujo, 2015). The most significant finding is that substantial coverage of the
five essential significant components of reading instruction is important for ESL and EFL students.
Given that research has identified the “Big 5” of reading instruction, it is clear then that any reading programme
must include these components. Let’s examine what these five components are and how we can work them into
our reading programme.