The figure below offers examples of skills children will develop at each stage of the process of becoming literate. With the help of teachers, students will gain critical skills and transition from one step to another. Students will do this at different rates and in different orders. The figure below presents a learning trajectory that is common for many students. It also outlines broad stages of literacy development. Students will pass through each of these stages as they develop their reading skills. 

These steps do not correspond exactly to certain grade levels; however, step 1 may begin before a child begins school, and step 4 should be occurring as a child nears the end of primary school. It is important, though, that students get off on the right foot as they start school. If they fall behind in the first years, it may be very difficult to help them get back to the level of their peers.

Reading serves as a foundation for all learning, in and out of school. By becoming good readers, students will have a chance to experience academic success, express themselves in writing, understand others’ written expression, learn to listen effectively and develop a “learning for life” capacity.