How CARS & STARS Aligns with Whole-School Explicit Instruction Pedagogy

In recent years, explicit instruction has emerged as a powerful, evidence-based teaching approach. Schools adopting this pedagogy focus on structured, systematic teaching to ensure every student masters essential skills. If your school is already implementing whole-school explicit instruction, CARS & STARS Online is the perfect complement to reinforce reading comprehension strategies effectively.

Here’s how CARS & STARS seamlessly aligns with and supports explicit instruction across the whole school.

1. Structured, Sequential Learning
   CARS & STARS is designed to teach 12 essential reading comprehension strategies in a clear and logical order. This mirrors the core principle of explicit instruction: teaching skills systematically to build on prior knowledge. Each strategy is introduced step by step, ensuring students master foundational skills before progressing to more advanced concepts.
   
   
2. Modelling and Guided Practice
   Explicit instruction requires teacher modelling, guided practice and independent learning—often referred to as the 'I do, We do, You do' method. CARS & STARS provides teachers with the tools to model comprehension strategies clearly, allowing students to practise with support before moving to independent tasks. This process builds confidence and promotes deeper understanding.
   
   
3. Differentiated, Targeted Instruction
   The built-in diagnostic assessments in CARS & STARS are essential for schools aiming to provide targeted support. These assessments identify individual student needs, allowing teachers to offer differentiated instruction. Whole-school data analysis ensures that instruction remains focused on addressing specific areas where students need the most support.
   
   
4. Mastery Learning and High Expectations
   Mastery learning is a key component of explicit instruction. CARS & STARS encourages high expectations by providing repeated practice and exposure to each comprehension strategy until students achieve proficiency. Progress monitoring ensures no student is left behind.
   
   
5. Data-Driven Decision Making
   Explicit instruction thrives on data. CARS & STARS Online offers comprehensive reporting tools, enabling teachers and leadership teams to track individual and whole-school progress. These insights help teachers adjust their instruction to meet student needs while aligning with the school’s broader improvement goals.
   
   
6. Consistency and Common Language Across Year Levels
   One of the greatest challenges in whole-school approaches is achieving consistency. CARS & STARS provides a common framework and language for teaching comprehension across all year levels, creating alignment and continuity. This shared approach strengthens collaboration among teachers and enhances student outcomes across the board.
   
   
7. Student Engagement and Feedback
   CARS & STARS Online keeps students engaged by providing immediate feedback, helping them reflect on their progress. This aligns perfectly with explicit instruction’s emphasis on feedback and metacognition. When students know where they stand and how they can improve, their learning becomes more meaningful and self-directed.

For schools already using explicit instruction, CARS & STARS Online is an ideal resource to boost reading comprehension outcomes. Its structured, data-driven and student-centred design supports consistent teaching practices and helps schools achieve their literacy goals. By aligning with whole-school pedagogy, CARS & STARS ensures every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Want to know more about how CARS & STARS Online can enhance your school’s reading program? Start your 30-day free trial today!