A Roadmap for Language and Literacy Success: Screen Early, Teach Explicitly and Monitor Progress

This three-part series by Petersen and Spencer provides an integrated roadmap for language and literacy success, combining early identification of learning difficulties, explicit and systematic instruction, and efficient progress monitoring. Session 1 addresses quick and valid identification of dyslexia and developmental language disorder (DLD), contrasting traditional static assessment with innovative dynamic assessment approaches that reduce delays—particularly for culturally and linguistically diverse students. Session 2 focuses on accelerating learning through multi-tiered, explicit, and systematic language instruction, addressing both word reading and language comprehension. Session 3 covers efficient progress monitoring to ensure interventions are effective and responsive to individual needs. The series aims for precision services that amplify instructional impact.