EPIC

Implementing the Essential Components of Reading

This professional learning session focuses on translating foundational Science of Reading knowledge into effective classroom practice through the implementation of the essential components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Using KDE’s Literacy at a Glance, participants will examine what high-quality instruction looks like for each component and how the components work together within a comprehensive reading block. Educators will analyze instructional practices, materials, and assessment data to determine whether instruction is aligned to student needs and grounded in evidence-based practice. This session emphasizes instructional coherence and appropriate use of data to support strong Tier 1 reading instruction for K–3 learners.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Explain the purpose and instructional role of each essential component of reading (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension) and how they work together to support skilled reading.

• Identify what high-quality instruction looks like for each component by using KDE’s Literacy at a Glance descriptors to distinguish strong instruction from common misapplications.

• Analyze classroom practices and instructional materials to determine which essential components are being addressed, which are missing, and which may be over- or under-emphasized.

• Use assessment data appropriately to inform instruction within the components, including matching instructional focus to student need rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approaches.

• Describe how the essential components are implemented within a comprehensive reading block, including the roles of whole-group, small-group, and intervention instruction.

Date: November 17, 2026

Time: 8:30-3:30 CT

Location: GRREC Events Center. Bowling Green, KY

Cost: $250 (includes breakfast and lunch)

Registration Coming Soon!

Questions? Please email epic@grrec.org.