What has been shown to be beneficial for improving reading skills in students?

Explicit writing instruction has been shown to be beneficial for improving reading skills in students because it helps to create a deeper understanding of language structure and usage. Writing and reading are interconnected processes, and when students engage in explicit instruction that focuses on the mechanics of writing—such as grammar, sentence structure, and organization—they develop a clearer comprehension of how written language functions. This understanding can enhance their reading skills by enabling them to decode and interpret texts more effectively.

Additionally, the act of writing encourages students to think critically about language, which supports their overall literacy development. When students learn to express their thoughts through writing, they also become more aware of the features of text they are reading, ultimately leading to improved reading fluency and comprehension.

Increased reading time can certainly promote better reading skills by allowing students to practice and hone their abilities, but without the structured support provided by explicit writing instruction, the growth may not be as profound. Focusing solely on phonics could neglect other essential components of reading comprehension, and independent reading without guidance might limit a student's opportunity to receive feedback and develop necessary skills. Thus, the approach of integrating explicit writing instruction stands out as particularly effective in enhancing reading skills.