Explicit Phonics & The Science of Reading
Cornerstone Preparatory Academy follows the State of Florida's model for English Language Arts & Reading instruction.
We believe that confident readers are built, not born. Our approach to literacy is grounded in explicit phonics instruction, a research-based method proven by the Science of Reading to help all children become fluent, joyful readers.
Explicit phonics instruction means that students are directly and systematically taught how letters and combinations of letters represent sounds.
Teachers guide students step by step — introducing sounds, blending them into words, and applying spelling and decoding strategies with clarity and consistency.
This structured approach ensures that every child masters the foundational skills of reading, spelling, and writing before moving on to more complex texts.
In the Grammar Stage of our classical model (Grades K–2), explicit phonics lays the cornerstone for all future learning. Students gain the tools to unlock language, grow their vocabulary, and develop strong comprehension skills that open the door to great works of literature and meaningful learning across every subject.
Students build strong early literacy foundations through Wilson Language Fundations phonemic awareness curriculum..
As students become skilled readers, they begin to further explore and build their abilities in reading comprehension. While some advanced readers will enter this stage early, most students approach this level around the Third Grade, and continue to build reading comprehension through the Fifth Grade.
Growing Strong & Confident Readers
Cornerstone's integrated reading approach supports all levels of learners, no matter their current level of reading. Advanced students are provided materials appropriate to their level, while struggling learners are provided additional supports and interventions to help them gain the skills to be capable and confident readers.
At Cornerstone, our reading instruction blends the best of classical literature with modern, evidence-based practice.
Students engage in a combination of classical texts with reading curriculum fully aligned to Florida’s B.E.S.T. standards and grounded in the Science of Reading. This combination of materials provides a structured framework that integrates engaged reading of quality texts with organized ELA instruction - creating a comprehensive program of English Language Arts that is both rigorous and supportive.
By teaching reading this way, we cultivate not only capable readers, but curious, confident learners who love words, ideas, and the lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
