Research has determined that there are five essential components of effective reading instruction. The five components are:

• Phonemic Awareness

• Phonics

• Vocabulary

• Fluency

• Comprehension

All five components interconnect and rely on the others for reading success. For example, a student cannot read fluently if they are struggling with the vocabulary. Each component is essential. "Teachers who have a thorough understanding of the five essential components of effective reading instruction are equipped to teach children to read using instructional strategies and materials that have proven to be effective" (Learning Point Associates, 2014). This site offers more detailed information about each of the five components and some examples of activities that will target each skill.