Beginning Reading: Educational Tools for Diverse Learners

At a national level, major directives have been initiated to increase achievement outcomes in virtually every subject area. In this article, we provide a framework for improving the instructional tools in beginning reading with particular emphasis on their importance for children with diverse learning needs. A rationale based on current practice and the challenges of increasing diversity in classrooms is provided. Critical dimensions or big ideas of beginning reading are identified and related to curriculum design principles to improve learning outcomes.