If students are fluently reading a decodable text (with GPCs and camera words already taught) would this mean they have achieved their end of kindergarten outcome. Traditionally it would be a PM level 8, so should we look at these?

In the Simple View of Reading there are two major processes – Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. The SVR doesn’t use nor rely on context, semantic or picture cues. Therefore, PM levelled readers (or predictable texts) don’t fit the evidence based reading model. These texts encourage guessing. Don’t focus on the ‘level’ as the predictable structure is not helpful. The research supports the use of a synthetic phonics program, of which decodable readers are a part.

As students move from novice to expert in the basic code, you may begin to mix decodable readers with levelled texts for schema, or real texts such as picture books. Think about schema or your learning intention driving your text selection, rather than a number.

Relevant Related Content

Refuting the three-cueing system:

https://fivefromfive.com.au/the-three-cueing-system/

The Simple View of Reading:

https://pamelasnow.blogspot.com/2019/02/the-simple-view-of-reading-still.html?fbclid=IwAR1GM5MZGc0kIWn-nREPeXRKXuL3SrONY5QplXlNMzQP-C_TYRWTF-ZehiQ