Studies

1. Caerphilly Primary

Click here to view the full study (3-page PDF)

Summary

After using our programme for just 30 mins per day, the two groups studied gained an average of:

  • 31.9 months in reading age level after 6-10 months.

 

2. St Therese School

Click here to view the full study (5-page PDF)

Summary

After using our programme for just 30 mins per day over 10 weeks (2.3 months), group:

  • A) [6-8yr old students] gained an average of 21 months in reading age level. There were also impressive gains achieved in listening and oracy skills.

  • B) [11-12yr old ESL students] gained an average of 16 months in reading age level.

 

3. Catholic Girls' Secondary School

Click here to view the full study (7-page PDF)

Summary

After using our programme for just 30 mins per day over 8 weeks (1.8 months), 15 students (13-15 years old, some ELL) gained an average of:

  • 14.4 months progress in reading level and comprehension
  • 9.7 months progress in word recognition skills

 

4. Nineteen Different Schools in Nelson

Click here to view the full study (5-page PDF)

Summary

After using our programme for up to 25 mins per day over an average of 27.5 weeks (6.4 months), 43 students (7-12 years old) gained an average of:

  • 26.8 months progress in reading level and comprehension

 

5. Eight Different Schools in Auckland

Click here to view the full study (12-page PDF)

Summary

After using our programme for up to 30 mins per day over an average of 18 weeks (4.2 months), 29 students (7-12 years old) gained an average of:

  • 26 months progress in reading level
  • Helped English Language Learners just as much, in many cases more 
  • Also helped students develop their writing, spelling and oral language skills

 

6. Dunedin Intermediate School

Summary

After using our programme for over 15 weeks (3.5 months), 24 students (12-13 years old) gained an average of:

  • 1.9 years (22.8 months) in reading level

 

More Information

Sue introduced Rainbow Reading to Year 8 students in her decile 4 Dunedin intermediate school. They followed the format recommended by Rainbow Reading publishers.

Twenty four students made average gains of 1.9 years in reading level (range: 1-3 years) in just 15 weeks on the program, as tested using the PROBE reading test. The average number of Rainbow Reading levels (a level is equivalent to 12 months progress in reading) moved was 3.6.

The lowest number of levels moved was three (years) which was achieved by 3 students. The highest number of levels moved was five (years) which was achieved by two students.

 

Sue reported that:

  • Children on the program made significant gains in their reading ability
  • The program itself has proven to be an effective one
  • It provides a good model by a good reader, it focuses on what reading is all about (understanding the author’s intent)
  • It reinforces and extends the child’s existing language patterns
    It allows for the much needed extra practice without pressure from others
  • It shifts the focus away from getting all the words right and the child has control over their learning environment.

Furthermore students enjoyed the program, rarely had to be reminded to go to practice, asked to take the books home to read to their parents and were generally very positive.