Distinguishing Characteristics
Although WRS does have facets in common with some other structured language programs, it has several unique characteristics that set it apart, which include:
- Research-based with more than ten years of data collected and analyzed from school districts implementing the program
- A systematic and cumulative approach to teach total word structure for decoding and encoding designed for students beyond early elementary, adolescents, and adults
- Extensive controlled text (wordlists, sentences, and stories) for application of skills and fluency
- A unique “sound tapping” system early in the program to help students segment and blend sounds
- Emphasis on the six syllable types
- Coding of words used as reinforcement; emphasis is placed on application
- A penciling technique for tracking syllable division and prosody
- Focus on understanding and fluent application of the rules
- Teaching concepts through the manipulation of sound, syllable and suffix cards
- Capability to follow students from one grade to the next as needed
- Criterion-based assessment, built into the program to track student progress
- Two vocabulary levels: one appropriate for elementary students, ELL students, and those with limited vocabulary; the other for older students with advanced vocabularies
- Ongoing commitment to implementation, professional learning, and staff support
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