Shifting the Balance, Grades 3-5: 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Upper Elementary Classroom Idea 1: Explicitly Teach Phonics Focus on decoding and encoding skills Use multisensory activities and games Idea 2: Provide Ample Opportunities for Reading Encourage independent reading Offer a variety of texts at different levels Idea 3: Use Decodable Texts Select texts with controlled vocabulary and predictable patterns Gradually increase text complexity Idea 4: Teach Fluency Practice reading aloud with expression Use timed readings and repeated readings Idea 5: Build Vocabulary Introduce new words through context and direct instruction Use word walls and vocabulary games Idea 6: Foster Comprehension Teach comprehension strategies (e.g., summarizing, inferencing) Use graphic organizers and discussion groups