Age-appropriate books can help struggling older readers catch up to their peers, boost self-esteem and reignite an interest in reading and learning.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2025 -- Really Great Reading is proud to introduce a collection of decodable chapter books for struggling readers in Grades 6–12 in partnership with Storyshares, a mission-driven literacy organization. For the first time, older students who struggle with proficient reading can access engaging, age-appropriate decodable books that support structured phonics alongside the HD Word scope and sequence.
"Older struggling readers often receive materials that either feel too juvenile or fail to meet their instructional needs," said Amy Vanden Boogart, Vice President of Curriculum Products and Services at Really Great Reading. "By working with Storyshares, we've created a powerful set of decodable texts supporting reading development and honoring students' maturity and interests. These books will be a game-changer for adolescent literacy."
The January release of 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress test scores, also known as the National Report Card, showed overall test scores dropped five points from 2019 with just 30% of 8th-grade readers meeting or exceeding proficiency guidelines. According to the report, average reading scores for public school students declined in eight states and seven urban districts compared to 2022. More declined in comparison to 2019. The scores demonstrate the need for more structured and targeted intervention programs.
The innovative Storyshares series expands literacy opportunities for adolescent learners, addressing long-standing gaps in reading instruction. By focusing intentionally on this age group and their educators, Really Great Reading is working to mitigate the literacy crisis by providing meaningful, structured resources that support lasting reading development.
"Middle school and high school can be hard enough. Adolescents who struggle with reading can face the additional challenges of low self-esteem, lack of interest in school and other social and emotional hurdles that can lead to lifelong struggles," Storyshares Founder and CEO Louise Baigelman said. "These books help spark their interest in reading by introducing narratives that are relatable and not geared toward younger readers."
The Importance of Decodable Texts for Grades 6-12
Traditional reading interventions often overlook adolescent learners, leaving them without materials suited to their developmental stage. This series offers structured phonics support through compelling narratives and sophisticated storytelling. Aligned with Really Great Reading's HD Word program, these books provide engaging, age-appropriate content that strengthens key reading strategies while making literacy instruction more accessible and enjoyable.
Key Benefits
- Decodable Texts for Older Students: The books support orthographic mapping, reinforcing phonics skills in a format that keeps students engaged.
- Designs that Pass the Backpack Test: The books feature photographs and narrative-driven content, respecting students' maturity and avoiding overly simplistic elements.
- Diverse Storytelling: The series includes diverse characters and culturally relevant themes, making reading more meaningful and relatable.
- Aligned with HD Word: These texts integrate seamlessly with Really Great Reading's HD Word scope and sequence, strengthening phonics mastery.
- Bridging Phonics to Complex Reading: Students gain experience applying phonics skills to complex texts, which helps them transition these skills to academic subjects like science and history, enhancing comprehension.
- Easy Classroom Implementation: Teachers can use the books immediately without extensive training, simplifying literacy intervention.
Providing the Right Tools for Struggling Adolescent Readers
Too many older students face literacy challenges due to gaps in foundational reading skills. Really Great Reading is helping to close this gap by offering structured, engaging materials that support confidence and fluency.
This initiative significantly advances evidence-based literacy instruction, helping students develop essential skills through meaningful content.
Learn More
For more details on this exciting collaboration and how these books can enhance your literacy efforts, visit Really Great Reading's website or explore Storyshares' decodable chapter books online.
ABOUT REALLY GREAT READING
Really Great Reading is a leading provider of research-based literacy programs and resources. For over 18 years, the company has been dedicated to improving students' reading outcomes by developing materials that align with the latest research and educational standards. Its mission is to empower educators and students with effective and practical tools and support to foster a love of reading and ensure academic success. To learn more, visit our website at www.reallygreatreading.com.
ABOUT STORYSHARES
Storyshares offers a continuously expanding selection of over 500 engaging and relevant decodable and high-low titles catering to a wide range of reading abilities and interests. Storyshares also supports educators with a comprehensive suite of literacy resources and professional development opportunities, ensuring that educators can effectively bridge the Science of Reading with culturally relevant content and foster significant literacy growth for students in grades 3-12. To learn more, visit their website at www.storyshares.org.
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