Artfully Teaching the Science of Reading

by Chase Young, David Paige, Rasinski

This inviting book is a bridge between two major strands of reading instruction that are often held in opposition: the science of reading and artful approaches to teaching reading. Although the current climate of literacy instruction positions these approaches as diametrically opposed, the authors Young, Paige, and Rasinski describe how teachers can use the science of reading to engage students in artful, engaging, and authentic instruction. The authors reveal how effective teaching is a dynamic process that requires agency and creativity and show how teachers make artful shifts based on the needs of students in specific contexts. Chapters include a range of examples and explanations of how artful teaching is integrated into reading instruction and how it can increase students' motivation and positive attitudes toward reading. The concise and practical chapters cover key topics, including phonemic awareness, reading fluency, vocabulary, assessment, home and family reading, and more.

This essential road map for all pre-service and in-service reading teachers restores the importance of teacher agency, supports the critical understanding of reading research, and allows teachers to use their knowledge, experience, and creative approaches in the classroom. This is the definitive guide to teaching reading as both an art and a science.

Genres: Education

184 pages, Paperback

Published April 4, 2022

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

An overview or general road map to applying the science of reading in an "artful" manner. This means teaching scientifically researched-based reading competencies using artful instruction, which the authors define as authentic, aesthetic, and creative. As the authors point out, reading teachers practice at the intersection of science and the humanities. This manual of sorts was clear, readable, balanced, and well-researched. Along with scientific foundational concepts, this book also contained many easy-to-use classroom ideas for teachers. It's a great jumping off point for more rigorous learning and practice.

[Mandy Robek · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for every educator right now!

[Stephanie Sulkowski Fumiatti · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little textbook-y but a great blend of the art and science of teaching.

[Ryan Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 stars content, 3 stars writing (i'll edit next time), 5 stars for being my little brother.

[Lora Hodges · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed learning more about the science of reading. The context of an artful approach to teaching evidence-based reading skills was just what I needed to embrace this approach. As educators, a big part of our job is to create life-long learners who are truly engaged in reading. The ideas shared in this book inspire me to keep a love of learning at the forefront of instructional decisions.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book that combines the science of reading with artful teaching. The goals of the authors are to empower teachers and to motivate young readers, and they have certainly achieved that through all the teaching ideas they share.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished reading "Artfully Teaching the Science of Reading", Chase Young, David Paige,
and Tim Rasinski. It is helping me put everything into context while keeping understanding at the forefront. We know so much more about teaching readers.

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, scholarly AND accessible book filled with solid ideas and examples.

[Turquoise Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple engaging strategies supported by research for each domain in the big five of reading. Did this as a book study and enjoyed sharing ideas.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are an UNDERGRADUATE or need an intro to the topic, it’s a good book for you. If you are like me and further along in journey, this is not the book for you.

[Jamie K. Corbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick, easy REFRESHING read for literacy advocates who are raising their eyebrows at the latest spending trends in literacy. Affirming and inspirational at the same time. Enough theory to satisfy the nerds and yet still be approachable for the busy teacher who needs the big ideas fast. My copy is dogeared, highlighted, and freckled with scribbled notes. Excited to use this resource in my practice.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started teaching Title 1 reading groups this year and there have been so many new literacy phrases and concepts to learn or re-learn. This book did a nice job of giving examples of all these different literacy concepts and how to effectively teach them. It was a good, helpful read.

[Kristen Iworsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely worth the read. Some good tips to make reading more engaging.

[Breanna Morrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly for being a college course book- I have learned the most reading this. This book has given me a lot of strategies and knowledge for the classroom.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a high school English teacher wrapping up my master’s program to become a Reading Specialist, Artfully Teaching the Science of Reading by Chase Young, David Paige, and Timothy Rasinski felt like a perfect final book to close out this chapter. It bridges the gap between two worlds that often feel at odds: the structured, evidence-based “science of reading” and the creative, flexible art of good teaching. What I appreciated most was how the authors emphasize teacher agency, reminding us that we’re not just implementers of research but professionals who can adapt and engage our students with purpose and passion. The book covers phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, even home literacy all in a concise, practical way that makes it great for both pre-service teachers and experienced educators looking to refresh their approach. I gave it 4 stars because while it is incredibly helpful and affirming, especially at this point in my journey, a few chapters felt like they skimmed the surface when I wanted a deeper dive. Still, it’s a strong and motivating read, and I’d recommend it to any teacher who wants to support struggling readers without losing the joy and art of teaching.