Benchmark Word Detectives Program

Students who are not learning to read in their school setting may need a completely different approach to learning word identification.  At EnCourage Institute we offer the Benchmark Word Detectives program.  Word Detectives is one of the few available decoding/spelling programs that teaches all four ways children read words: decoding by analogy, letter-sound matching, contextual cueing, and sight (Ehri, Scientific Studies of Reading, 2005).  Decoding by analogy is a key strategy missing from many other reading programs (including remedial and special education programs) and for many students is the key strategy that unlocks the mystery of word identification and spelling.

Decoding by analogy teaches key words with spelling patterns that students use to identify and learn the many other words they encounter in school and personal reading.  Sight words, and words with multiple patterns complete the set of key words learned.  Students embed their word learning in the context of what they are reading to make sure it "makes sense".  Finally, letter-sound pattern knowledge is taught to complete the set of strategies available to the developing reader.

Benchmark Word Detectives is a research-based reading and spelling program developed by Dr. Irene Gaskins in collaboration with Benchmark School teacher-researchers, and leading Reading/Literacy researchers including Dr. Patricia Cunningham, Dr. Richard Anderson, and Dr. Linnea Ehri. 

Benchmark School was founded in 1970 by Dr. Irene Gaskins and is located in Media, Pennsylvania.  It is a research-based laboratory school for children ages 6-17 who are non-readers or underachievers in reading. Collaboration with eminent authorities in Education and Psychology is a unique feature of the school and continues to support the students' success. For more information visit the Benchmark website:  www.benchmarkschool.org

At EnCourage Institute our students are experiencing similar success with the Word Detectives program.  Since most students are tutored only one day during the school year, parents are provided materials that they are expected to use during the week to extend the instruction.  

If your child is continuing to struggle to learn to read despite extra help or remedial education programs, contact EnCourage Institute for a free consultation. You can also call (616) 530-2224 or email Dr. Mary Rozendal at mary@encourageinstitute.com