Which element is commonly included in evidence-based reading interventions?

• A. Random guessing
• B. Passive listening
• C. Explicit instruction
• D. Memorization only

Answer: (C)

Explicit instruction is the element commonly included in evidence-based reading interventions. It provides clear, direct teaching of reading skills with explicit modeling, guided practice, feedback, and a structured progression. In practice, this means the teacher demonstrates how to decode words, apply reading strategies, monitor comprehension, and then supports students as they practice these steps, gradually releasing responsibility as they gain proficiency. This approach is evidence-based because it offers systematic, observable instruction that helps struggling readers acquire and apply skills rather than relying on chance or passive activity.

Why the other options don’t fit: random guessing lacks any systematic strategy or feedback, so it doesn’t build foundational skills. Passive listening involves little active engagement or practice with the strategies readers need. Memorization only addresses recall and does not equip a student with the flexible skills needed to decode new words or understand varied texts. Explicit instruction, with its combination of clear modeling, guided practice, and feedback, directly targets the skills and processes students need to improve reading outcomes.