There is no gene for reading

Surprised? Well, who wouldn't be! 80% of kids learn to read pretty much on their own. So, it would seem that there is a gene in there that facilitates the process. But, not so.
Instead of one gene for reading, there are a number of genes involved that have components that contribute to the ability to read.
And, don't forget! Reading is not natural! It was manufactured by our ancesters as a way to communicate and to record history. The fact that 80% of kids can learn to read with ease suggests that many of us can process the language system that is being used to make words.
What about the other 20%? Well, they need help. They need a scaffolding, a framework, into which they can store the language information. It is as if that framework is missing in these students. So, the secret to helping these kids is to unravel the mystery, partly by understanding the way English was manufactured. Spoken English has evolved dramatically over the centuries but written English has stayed the same for eons. No wonder kids are confused. That's why I wrote the book "Words Aren't Fair" - because they aren't.
time but the

Teaching kids is a humbling experience. They know so little in the beginning and yet they are open and willing to enter into a contract with you to teach them what they need to know. This trust must not be taken lightly so know your stuff and try different ways of saying the same thing. That's my thought for today.