For years, educators have argued about the best way to teach reading in what's famously known as the "reading wars."  Some say we should focus on sounding out letters and blending them together (that's phonics), while others believe kids should learn by seeing whole words in context (that's whole language). But recently, there's been a lot more talk about the Science of Reading. Now, we're looking at what neuroscience as well as psychology can tell us about how our brains learn to read. After decades of accumulating evidence, we have reached a point where we no longer engage in debates over the most effective methods for teaching reading. We know how the brain learns to read words. 

One key concept that has emerged from the focus on the Science of Reading is  orthographic mapping. Orthographic, derived from the term orthography, refers to the spelling patterns  within our language. Mapping refers to the process of creating strong connections or associations within the brain. . Essentially, orthographic mapping is the process by which our brains create a lasting connection between the spelling, pronunciation, and meaning of words. 

Imagine you encounter a new word. Your brain must first decipher the individual sounds (phonemes) represented by the letters in the word. Then, it blends these sounds together to pronounce the word. Simultaneously, your brain links the word's spelling to its pronunciation and meaning, reinforcing this connection over time. For some, this process happens almost instantaneously, while for others, it may require repeated exposure and practice.

So, how can we support this crucial process of orthographic mapping in our teaching practices? One effective approach is to adopt a multi-modal method that integrates various strategies. This may involve teaching the meaning of words, using them in context, and simultaneously reinforcing the connection between spelling and pronunciation.

However, it's essential to recognize that this approach requires effort and perseverance. Rather than simply memorizing whole words as pictures, students need to actively decode each word, breaking it down into its component sounds. While this may initially feel laborious, the payoff is immense. As Anita Archer aptly puts it, "Success breeds motivation." When students engage in the hard work of decoding, they develop the skills necessary for fluent reading.

In essence, the key to effective reading instruction lies in understanding how our brains learn to read. By embracing the science behind orthographic mapping and adopting evidence-based instructional strategies, educators can empower students to become confident and proficient readers. So, let's ditch the reading wars and embark on a journey towards literacy success, one orthographic map at a time.