Screening and Prevention
Early screening involves assessing key reading-related skills, such as phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and decoding abilities, in young children. By conducting these assessments in kindergarten and early primary years, educators can identify students who may be at risk for reading difficulties or dyslexia.
Screening and early structured literacy intervention play a vital role in preventing reading difficulties and promoting successful literacy development. By identifying and addressing potential challenges at an early stage, we can provide targeted support and interventions that can significantly impact a child’s reading abilities.
Universal screening does not diagnose dyslexia, but it allows educators to target structured literacy instruction to a child’s needs. Structured literacy instruction ensures that students receive the necessary foundational knowledge and skills to become proficient readers.
Myths and Misconceptions
With PPM8, Ontario now offers universal screening to all students in Kindergarten Year 2 to Grade 2. Despite this, there are many myths and misconceptions about screening