As a Doctor of Educational Technology (DET) student Central Michigan University passionate about designing learning platforms for autistic students, I knew I needed real-world experience. That’s why I chose to work as a special education (SPED) teacher during my doctoral journey.
This is my first year, and I teach a mix of K-3rd graders working at a 1st-grade level in both math and ELA. One thing I’ve already realized? Daily structured literacy time (reading & writing) is non-negotiable.
Here’s why research and best practices support this approach:
📖 Enhances Communication & Language Development
Reading exposes students to vocabulary & sentence structures.
Writing strengthens syntax & expression.
📌 Research: Structured literacy improves communication skills in autistic learners (Westerveld & Roberts, 2017).
✍️ Supports OT & Fine Motor Development
Writing helps with grip strength, hand-eye coordination, & stamina.
Typing & dictation can supplement writing goals.
📌 Research: Handwriting interventions improve academic outcomes for students with ASD (Ashburner et al., 2010).
📚 Increases Reading Fluency & Comprehension
Many autistic students can decode words but struggle with comprehension.
Repeated exposure improves fluency & real-world reading skills.
📌 Research: Structured literacy significantly boosts comprehension (National Reading Panel, 2000).
🔄 Builds Routine & Reduces Anxiety
Predictable literacy time helps students feel secure & focused.
📌 Research: Structured literacy reduces anxiety & improves self-regulation (Gulchak, 2008).
📝 Encourages Self-Expression & Emotional Regulation
Writing provides a low-pressure way to express emotions.
📌 Research: Expressive writing improves self-regulation (MacKay & Torres, 2019).
💡 Prepares Students for Independence & Future Success
Functional literacy is key for real-world tasks (reading instructions, job applications, etc.).
📌 Research: Functional literacy leads to better post-secondary outcomes (McIntyre et al., 2018).
📊 Allows for Differentiation Based on Individual Needs
Reading & writing instruction can be tailored to IEP goals.
📌 Research: Differentiated instruction increases engagement (Knight et al., 2013).
Why We Do This Every Day
✅ Improves communication & language skills
✅ Builds fine motor skills & OT support
✅ Increases fluency & real-world reading comprehension
✅ Provides structure & reduces anxiety
✅ Fosters self-expression & emotional regulation
✅ Prepares students for lifelong independence
If we prioritize ELA and Math but skip structured literacy, we leave gaps in critical life skills!
What are your thoughts on structured literacy for autistic students? Let’s discuss!