Learning to Read Is Like Learning a New Language
I was explaining to my husband how SLL (Structured Linguistic Literacy) works, and how it aligns with the way our brains naturally learn to read. I was impressed by his insight when he responded, “So, it’s like learning a new language.” I hadn’t really thought about it that way before, but he was right—there are definitely similarities.
I have friends who are missionaries in Central America. To serve effectively, they needed to become fluent in Spanish. The first step they took was attending language school. I imagine the program provided direct and explicit instruction on how the Spanish language works, and it likely lasted less than a year.
This process parallels what research shows about learning to read. We need direct and explicit instruction in how the written code works. It doesn’t have to take years, but learners must develop a solid understanding of the basic and advanced code in order to begin reading independently. SLL follows this principle—providing systematic, explicit instruction that builds a strong foundation without dragging on so long that it delays immersion into the full language.
In both language school and literacy instruction, the most significant growth happens during immersion. Missionaries gain fluency by living among native speakers and using the language daily. Similarly, young readers grow the most when they are immersed in books. While foundational instruction is essential at the beginning, it’s through reading real, meaningful texts that students develop true proficiency.
That’s why SLL emphasizes getting children into decodable books quickly—and then transitioning them out just as quickly. The goal is to move them into authentic reading experiences that expose them to the full range of the English code. This immersion helps accelerate learning, much like living among native speakers helps language learners.
In addition to direct instruction, language learners benefit from frequent practice in both reading and writing. The same is true for new readers—they thrive when they read and write consistently and often.
So yes, my husband was right: learning to read really is like learning a new language.
Just like learning a new spoken language, learning to read requires both intentional instruction and meaningful practice. Structured Linguistic Literacy provides the clear, explicit teaching students need to understand how the written code works—much like a language school lays the groundwork for fluency. But the real growth happens during immersion: when students are actively reading, writing, and engaging with rich, meaningful texts.
As a reading tutor, I use these principles to guide my instruction—helping children build a strong foundation and then supporting them as they grow into confident, independent readers. With the right approach, learning to read doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—it can be a natural, even joyful, process.
Want to learn more about how Structured Linguistic Literacy can help your child become a stronger reader?
Let’s connect—I’d love to support your child’s reading journey.