It emphasizes a balance between phonics and meaning, using both children's literature and a series of interesting, enjoyable stories in which phonetically regular student text is enriched by teacher-read text. Students engage in partner reading and writing activities. Reading Wings , for students reading at the second through sixth grade levels, is built around a school's existing novels, anthologies, or basals. It emphasizes cooperative learning activities in which students work in teams to improve strategic reading and comprehension skills and investigate literature. Writing is emphasized throughout the program as a method for creative expression and responding to literature.
Students plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish compositions with feedback from teachers and peers.
The tutor diagnoses student needs and tailors instruction to meet those needs. Since a child's readiness to learn is often based on needs extending beyond the classroom, each Success For All school creates a Family Support Team to work closely with students, parents and community. This team typically includes the prinicipal and program facilitator, as well as the psychologist, special education consulting teachers, reading teachers, counselors, and volunteers. The Family Support Team plans activities to involve parents in their children's education, such as workshops on reading with children at home. The team also develops plans to meet needs of individual students having difficulty, closely monitors attendance, and integrates community and school resources.