In the US, as much as 40% of 4th graders and one-third of 8th graders read below the basic level expected of them. 

This report identifies five key criteria for effective reading interventions for older students who have fallen behind, using Phonic Books decodable readers as an example supporting resource: 

• a diagnostic assessment to determine a student’s skill level and the best starting point
• explicit and systematic instruction, teaching letter-sound correspondences, progressing from the initial code to the complex code
• age-appropriate resources, mature storylines, and illustrations to engage older readers and boost their confidence
• supporting rapid catch-up so students master early decoding skills and progress to more advanced skills
• support for teachers delivering intervention 

The challenge of supporting older students with reading difficulties requires commitment from educators, support from the school system, and hard work from the student. Using resources that support accurate assessment, build educator knowledge, follow a well-planned sequence, and support student confidence can greatly assist educators and learners and improve the chances of success for all readers.