More research is needed to determine if Reading Mastery works for beginning readers

Reading Mastery, one of several curriculum components that constitute the Direct Instruction program from SRA/McGraw-Hill, is designed to provide systematic instruction in reading to students in grades K–6. Reading Mastery, which can be used as an intervention program for struggling readers, as a supplement to a core reading program, or as a stand-alone reading program, is available in three versions. This review of Reading Mastery for Beginning Reading focuses on students in grades K–3.

Since the previous WWC report was released in August 2008, the WWC identified an additional 106 studies of Reading Mastery and its effects on beginning readers (grades K–3), bringing the total number of studies reviewed to 166. None of these studies meet WWC evidence standards for quality research. More research is needed to determine if Reading Mastery works for beginning readers.