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

by Amie Burkholder

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.

Product details

Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Paperback: 272 pages

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1394285248

Publication date: June 10, 2025

Amie Burkholder is a K–5 literacy coach, national speaker, and literacy consultant dedicated to helping teachers unlock every student's potential through evidence-based literacy practices. After realizing that traditional methods didn’t work for all students, she pursued a master’s in reading, trained in Orton-Gillingham and LETRS, and connected the dots between research, data, and effective instruction.

In 2019, Amie founded Literacy Edventures to support teachers with actionable strategies and resources. Through her Route2Reading Membership, phonics curriculum (approved under the Virginia Literacy Act), blog, and podcast, she provides practical, research-based tools grounded in the science of reading.

Inspired by her own children, Amie is passionate about helping educators become the teachers every child deserves. When she’s not working, she loves traveling, spending time with family, and enjoying life’s simple moments.

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