If you’re a reading teacher, you’ve probably heard about the need to teach phonics systematically. That kind of instruction is crucial—but it’s not enough to ensure your students will understand the increasingly complex text they’ll encounter as they advance through school and through life. The typical approach to teaching reading comprehension, with a primary focus on skills and strategies, also won’t ensure their academic success.

As an educator, I have had the privilege of collaborating with secondary teachers both in my own school district and across the country. These dedicated professionals love their content and care deeply about their students. Yet a troubling trend has emerged: Too many students are unable to complete assignments and appear unmotivated.