What is UFLI and how does it interact with spelling instruction?

Introduction

The University of Florida Literacy Initiative (UFLI, pronounced “you-fly”) represents a groundbreaking approach to literacy instruction that has transformed how educators teach reading and spelling. Built upon decades of scientific research and the Simple View of Reading framework, UFLI provides educators with practical, evidence-based tools and strategies to help students become proficient readers and writers. In this post, we’ll explore how UFLI works and its specific impact on spelling instruction.

Understanding UFLI’s Foundation: The Simple View of Reading

UFLI’s approach is grounded in the Simple View of Reading (SVR), a theoretical framework developed by Hoover and Gough (1986) and is aligned with the Science of Reading. This model proposes that reading comprehension is the product of two essential components: decoding ability and language comprehension. UFLI specifically targets these components through systematic instruction, recognizing that both skills must be developed for successful reading achievement. The research has been tested in over 100 studies across several languages, with positive results. The key insight behind this theory is:

Put another way: the ability for a student to read proficiently is the product of their ability to decode words and their ability to understand the language they are reading.

UFLI’s Approach to Spelling Instruction

UFLI integrates spelling instruction with reading in a systematic, explicit manner. The program emphasizes the connection between phonemic awareness (understanding of speech sounds) and orthographic knowledge (understanding of spelling patterns). Students learn to:

• Segment words into individual sounds
• Connect sounds to letters and letter patterns
• Recognize and apply common spelling rules
• Practice encoding (spelling) and decoding (reading) simultaneously

UFLI Tools and Resources

The initiative offers several key tools for educators:

1. UFLI Foundations: A comprehensive early literacy program
2. Virtual Teaching Resource Hub: Online materials for remote instruction
3. Parent Resource Hub: Parent resources for supporting their children’s literacy development

Implementation Across the United States

While UFLI originated at the University of Florida, its influence has expanded significantly. The program has been adopted by:

• Multiple school districts throughout Florida
• Statewide in the State of Ohio
• Various literacy initiatives across the southeastern United States
• Teacher preparation programs nationwide
• Professional development programs in multiple states

Evidence of Effectiveness

Research conducted through the University of Florida demonstrates that UFLI’s integrated approach to reading and spelling instruction leads to:

• Improved phonemic awareness
• Enhanced decoding abilities
• Stronger spelling performance
• Better overall reading comprehension These outcomes align with predictions from the Simple View of Reading model, supporting the theoretical foundation of the program.

Conclusion

UFLI represents a significant advancement in literacy instruction, offering a research-based approach that effectively integrates reading and spelling instruction. By building on the Simple View of Reading and providing comprehensive tools and resources, UFLI helps educators deliver effective literacy instruction that benefits all students. As more schools and districts adopt these methods, we can expect to see continued improvements in student literacy outcomes across the country.

Has your school district adopted UFLI? Are you looking for a way to evaluate your students’ spelling skills and save time? Spelling Test Buddy lets teachers give online spelling tests and practice, and saves teachers time. Try it today!

References

1. University of Florida Literacy Initiative. (n.d.). UFLI: University of Florida Literacy Initiative. https://ufli.education.ufl.edu/

2. Hoover, W. A., & Gough, P. B. (1990). The Simple View of Reading. Reading and Writing, 2, 127-160.

3. Simple View of Reading. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simple_view_of_reading