EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In this study, researchers investigated the effects of a schoolwide program, Bookworms
K–5 Reading and Writing (Bookworms), on student achievement. The study included seven cohorts of students (n = 8,806) in Grades 2–5 in 17 elementary schools. There was no comparison group, but researchers used a time-series design over three school years to estimate the change in students’ achievement trajectories as a result of implementing Bookworms.

Results show a significant positive impact of Bookworms on achievement, with gains compounding over time by the end of Grade 5. Students who began Grade 3 with weaker achievement experienced more growth than those with average achievement, and those with average achievement experienced more growth than those with the highest achievement.

This study provides evidence that a whole-class, core comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes high-volume reading of grade-level texts and evidence-based instructional practices can change the trajectory for all students, regardless of initial reading achievement.

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