ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS - Research into Reading
Research into Reading
We know that teaching students to read is complex and multifaceted. Indeed, many students struggle to learn to read. A research report was produced in 2024 about the state of teaching reading in Québec – in response to many questions that have been raised about student reading proficiency.
In this Status Report you will find:
- an examination of current Elementary ELA curriculum;
- an overview of the pedagogical practices of Québec ELA reading teachers;
- an analysis of the research on a variety of theoretical reading models;
- an examination of reading curricula from across Canada;
- recommendations for a proactive approach to addressing the challenges of teaching reading skills in Québec’s Anglophone schools; and,
- recommendations to improve literacy instruction in Québec, including a request for updates to the current ELA curriculum documents.
How to use this research to inform your practice?
- Read the executive summary. If intrigued by the executive summary, read the full report.
- Share 1 idea with a colleague about a new idea to explore based on the recommendations.
- Engage in your own continuous PD in alignment with the recommendations.
About the report
The report was produced collaboratively by several parties including the Ministry of Education ELA Programs department, professors/researchers from Quebec universities, elementary ELA consultants from the public and private sector and teachers across the province in the anglophone network.
The report aims to inform the provincial dialogue around reading instruction in Québec. In 2024, it was shared with key parties invested in advocating for quality reading instruction including the Ministry of Education, Quebec faculties of education, school boards and community organizations.
The report makes several recommendations to the Québec Ministry of Education for improving the ELA program, including revising the ELA curriculum and a comprehensive plan to support teachers with understanding how to teach foundational literacy skills.
The hope is that the report will lead to important changes throughout our education system to improve clarity around the teaching of reading and improved student success through evidence-based approaches.