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Beyond the Science of Reading: Connecting Literacy Instruction to the Science of Learning
October 26, 2026
Natalie Wexler
ISBN 978-1416633563
RLA/Instruction
The science of reading movement has done much to improve instruction in foundational skills. But that hard-won progress may be reversed unless we also help children acquire the knowledge and vocabulary they need to understand complex text.
At the same time, the science of learning movement has introduced many educators to evidence-based teaching principles that can be effective for all students. In Beyond the Science of Reading, Wexler addresses a missing piece of the conversation: the ways in which typical reading comprehension and writing instruction conflict with those principles.
Wexler also offers practical solutions for bringing science-informed literacy instruction to scale and reveals why
• Teaching phonics isn’t enough to create proficient readers.
• Building knowledge is the key to unlocking reading comprehension.
• Writing instruction holds untapped potential to boost literacy and learning.
• Instruction grounded in cognitive science can narrow achievement gaps.
• Current curriculum evaluation methods may be steering schools wrong.
Beyond the Science of Reading charts a bold path forward with a new way to equip all children to read with fluency, understanding, and joy. This is an essential resource for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of literacy and equity in the United States.
North Dakota United is dedicated to providing researched-based, member-driven, relevant, high-quality programs to advance skills, communication, and leadership opportunities. Book studies are typically one credit courses that last approximately six weeks. One credit equates to 15 hours of study. Expectations include reading the book, answering discussion questions, responding to others’ responses, and a reflection paper/action plan.
COST
Book studies are FREE to North Dakota United members.
All participants (members and non-members) are responsible for obtaining the book and the $50 credit fee to UND to have your credit recorded onto your transcript. The fee to participate in an NDU book study for non-members is $100, plus the $50 credit fee to UND.
If you have questions, please contact: amy.flicek@ndunited.org
October 26, 2026
Natalie Wexler
ISBN 978-1416633563
RLA/Instruction
The science of reading movement has done much to improve instruction in foundational skills. But that hard-won progress may be reversed unless we also help children acquire the knowledge and vocabulary they need to understand complex text.
At the same time, the science of learning movement has introduced many educators to evidence-based teaching principles that can be effective for all students. In Beyond the Science of Reading, Wexler addresses a missing piece of the conversation: the ways in which typical reading comprehension and writing instruction conflict with those principles.
Wexler also offers practical solutions for bringing science-informed literacy instruction to scale and reveals why
• Teaching phonics isn’t enough to create proficient readers.
• Building knowledge is the key to unlocking reading comprehension.
• Writing instruction holds untapped potential to boost literacy and learning.
• Instruction grounded in cognitive science can narrow achievement gaps.
• Current curriculum evaluation methods may be steering schools wrong.
Beyond the Science of Reading charts a bold path forward with a new way to equip all children to read with fluency, understanding, and joy. This is an essential resource for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of literacy and equity in the United States.
North Dakota United is dedicated to providing researched-based, member-driven, relevant, high-quality programs to advance skills, communication, and leadership opportunities. Book studies are typically one credit courses that last approximately six weeks. One credit equates to 15 hours of study. Expectations include reading the book, answering discussion questions, responding to others’ responses, and a reflection paper/action plan.
COST
Book studies are FREE to North Dakota United members.
All participants (members and non-members) are responsible for obtaining the book and the $50 credit fee to UND to have your credit recorded onto your transcript. The fee to participate in an NDU book study for non-members is $100, plus the $50 credit fee to UND.
If you have questions, please contact: amy.flicek@ndunited.org