The Power of Print

What Is the Power of Print?

The Power of Print celebrates the research-proven practices of leading instruction with a printed text or workbook and teacher guidance. Printed materials are a powerful tool, reducing distractions while promoting focus and deeper engagement with essential skills. The tactile and visual nature of print supports comprehension, reinforces skill development, and enables meaningful, structured practice—critical for accelerating progress and addressing skill gaps.

What Are the Benefits of Print-Based Instruction?

A growing body of research and classroom experience points to a powerful truth: Print-based, teacher-guided instruction remains one of the most effective ways to support deep learning, strong comprehension, and lasting academic growth. Here are some key benefits of print-based instruction:

Deeper Comprehension and Retention

Reading from print has been consistently linked to improved comprehension and retention compared to digital formats. Students are more likely to slow down, process information carefully, and build a stronger mental map of the content when engaging with physical text.

Focus Without Distractions

Print materials create a distraction-free environment that helps students stay engaged with content. Without pop-ups, notifications, or multitasking tabs, learners can focus fully on reading, writing, and thinking.

Active, Hands-On Learning

Print materials naturally support annotation, note-taking, and other tactile learning strategies. Students can highlight key ideas, write in margins, and physically interact with content—helping them process and retain information.

The Power of the Teacher

Teacher-guided instruction creates meaningful opportunities for interaction, discussion, and feedback. It allows educators to adapt in real time—responding to student needs, checking for understanding, and fostering classroom dialogue.

Supports Equity and Accessibility

Print-based instruction ensures consistent access to learning materials—regardless of device availability, internet connectivity, or digital literacy levels. The result: A more inclusive and equitable learning environment.

Print and Digital Learning Work Together

“The most effective instructional model uses both print and technology. The question is: Which one to use and when?”

– Dr. Louisa Moats

Teacher in front of classroom with hands raised

Print-based, teacher-guided instruction remains essential for deep, meaningful learning. Teacher guidance keeps students engaged by providing structure and direction—ensuring students stay on task and fully absorb what they’re learning. Digital learning tools should pair with print-based instruction to extend or reinforce what students are learning. Technology is especially powerful when used to streamline practice and assessment. Together, they create a structured, engaging, and effective educational experience that helps every student thrive.

Because when students focus deeply, engage actively, and learn with expert guidance—real learning happens and student confidence shines.

How Can I Learn More?

Dr. Louisa Moats

The Power of Print: Inspiring Classroom Discussion and Motivation

An inspiring conversation with Dr. Louisa Moats, author of LETRS^® professional learning and LANGUAGE! Live^® reading intervention, as we talk candidly about the power of printed books and materials and how educators can best select and use them to encourage student motivation and engagement—while helping all students build essential reading skills.

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Dr. Jan Hasbrouck

We Know HOW to Teach Children to Read: Let's DO It!

Too many students in our classrooms struggle with learning to read. This does not need to occur. Research has shown that approximately 95% of all students can be taught to read at grade level, including those with learning disabilities and dyslexia. How can we meet the needs of every student in today’s classrooms?

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Dr. Louisa Moats

Building Blocks of Reading: Understanding Concepts of Print

Setting clear goals and objectives is critical in any educational setting, especially when it comes to early literacy instruction. One of the most important goals is the development of strong concepts of print.

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The Power of Print Badge

As you explore, watch for the Power of Print badge. This badge signifies the program delivers instruction primarily through teacher-guided, print-based materials—supporting explicit, systematic instruction in foundational reading, writing, and math skills.

With teacher-led print instruction at the core, educators can deliver clear, consistent routines, provide immediate, targeted feedback, and differentiate support to meet the unique needs of every learner. This approach ensures equitable access to evidence-based intervention—helping educators change the trajectory of student outcomes and empower every learner to succeed in school, career, and life.