Literacy Unlocked: How to Implement the Science of Reading with Young Learners

The latest research and most effective teaching tools for better early literacy instruction

Literacy Unlocked explores the pivotal role of early literacy instruction in shaping a child's reading development and overall academic success. Shifting the focus from reactive intervention to a proactive approach that addresses problems before they arise, this book equips readers with research-backed insights and practical, accessible strategies to implement the science of reading to ensure future generations excel in literacy. Each chapter includes a link leading readers to supplementary online materials that can be utilized in instruction. Written by Amie Burkholder, K-5 literacy coach and CEO of Literacy Edventures, a popular early literacy learning platform, this book explores ideas including:

• The brain science of reading, with information on brain plasticity and the roles of the frontal, occipital-temporal, and parietal-temporal regions
• The disconnect in learning phonemic awareness and phonics separately, and why and how to address it as instructors
• Prerequisites for effective handwriting instruction, such as fine motor skills, pencil grip and posture, and understanding writing lines
• The importance of predictable routines in literacy instruction to help alleviate excessive student cognitive load, including the use of decodable texts

Cutting to the crux of better literacy instruction in simple language that anyone can understand, Literacy Unlocked is an essential resource for K-5 teachers, administrators, instructional assistants, reading specialists, and literacy coaches.

Author: Amie Burkholder
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
Published: 06/10/2025
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.86lbs
Size: 9.14h x 7.42w x 0.32d
ISBN: 9781394285242

About the Author

AMIE BURKHOLDER is a former first-grade teacher turned K-5 literacy coach. She is CEO of Literacy Edventures, and co-founder of the virtual science of reading conference Unlocking SoR. Through her businesses, she creates engaging, hands-on literacy curricula, activities, and resources to support teachers, parents, and administrators. She also hosts the Route2Reading podcast.