Improve Adolescent Literacy

As an educator and parent, I’ve worked with countless students who struggled with reading beyond the elementary years. It is important that we improve adolescent literacy. In the early grades, structured reading instruction is a priority, with phonics, decoding strategies, and guided reading groups embedded into daily lessons. However, by the time students reach middle and high school, those supports often fade, leaving struggling readers—especially those with dyslexia—without the help they still desperately need.

For students who struggle with reading, especially those with dyslexia, the transition to middle and high school can be overwhelming. Many of these students still need structured reading support, but the focus shifts from learning to read to reading to learn. Without continued interventions, struggling readers often fall further behind. So what can we do to help adolescent learners improve their literacy skills and build confidence in their reading abilities?

Explicit Vocabulary Instruction

One of the biggest challenges for middle school students is encountering unfamiliar words, especially in subjects like science and history. Unlike in elementary school, where teachers regularly introduced new vocabulary, middle and high school teachers often assumed students already understood these words. But struggling readers need explicit vocabulary instruction—directly teaching new words, breaking them down into meaningful parts, and using them in different contexts.

Middle School teachers or parents can pre-teach important vocabulary before assigning a reading passage. Breaking words down into prefixes, suffixes, and roots, providing multiple examples, and reinforcing them through discussion and activities all help students retain meaning. Using visuals, graphic organizers, and word maps can also support struggling readers by giving them concrete ways to connect with new vocabulary.

Direct and Explicit Comprehension Strategy Instruction

Another key to supporting adolescent literacy is explicitly teaching comprehension strategies. Many struggling readers don’t automatically make connections between what they read and what they already know. They need direct instruction in strategies like summarizing, asking questions, making inferences, and visualizing information.

For many children, highlighting key points, using graphic organizers, and pausing to discuss what they read helps improve comprehension. Instead of simply assigning reading, teachers and parents can help by modeling how to engage with the text—thinking aloud, asking questions, and making connections

Extended Discussions on Text Meaning and Interpretation

One of the most powerful ways to improve reading comprehension is through discussion. However, many struggling readers hesitate to participate in class discussions because they lack confidence in their understanding of the text. Creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts—even if they aren’t sure they’re “right”—is crucial.

At home, we can ask open-ended questions about our child’s reading, encouraging them to explain their thinking rather than just finding the “right” answer. Discussions that allow for different interpretations and deeper analysis can help students develop critical thinking skills and a stronger connection to the material. Teachers can also foster this in the classroom by creating opportunities for all students, including struggling readers, to share their thoughts in a supportive environment.

Increasing Motivation and Engagement in Learning

One of the biggest challenges in working with struggling adolescent readers is keeping them engaged. Many of these students have spent years feeling frustrated with reading, leading to a lack of confidence and motivation. If they don’t see the value in reading, they won’t put in the effort to improve.

To address this, incorporate choice whenever possible—letting students select books that interest them, using audiobooks alongside print, and integrating technology to make reading more accessible. Also, highlighting  their progress and celebrating small wins can help build confidence. The more students experience success with reading, the more likely they are to stay engaged.

Every Learner Is Different: The Need for Flexibility

Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned as a teacher and parent is that there is no single approach that works for all struggling readers. Some students need structured, systematic reading interventions, while others benefit from small-group discussions, individualized support, or accommodations like text-to-speech tools.

Flexibility is essential. We must be willing to adapt our instruction to meet the diverse needs of our students. This means working closely with support staff, advocating for reading interventions, and ensuring that struggling readers have the tools they need to succeed—not just in English class, but in every subject.

Conclusion

Adolescent literacy is a challenge, but it’s not an impossible one. With explicit instruction, engaging discussions, and individualized support, struggling readers can continue to grow in their skills and confidence. As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the difference that targeted interventions can make. It takes patience, creativity, and persistence, but with the right support, every student—regardless of their struggles—can become a stronger, more confident reader.

If your child is struggling with reading, don’t wait for them to fall further behind. Look for resources, advocate for their needs, and explore programs that provide structured literacy support. With the right tools, they can thrive.  Check out our Dyslexia Intervention Program to give your child the tools to thrive!