S5 E16 - Is Whole Class Phonics Instruction Really Equitable?

Has something in this episode resonated with you? Get in touch!

In this episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, Jocelyn challenges the common assumption that whole class phonics instruction is more equitable than targeted grouping, arguing that cognitive science research suggests otherwise. Drawing on cognitive load theory and John Sweller's research that humans can only process two to three novel pieces of information simultaneously, she demonstrates through a detailed classroom scenario how struggling students become cognitively overwhelmed in whole class lessons while advanced students remain unchallenged. 

Jocelyn contends that truly equitable instruction involves using assessment data to group students by skill level rather than ideology, ensuring optimal cognitive load where students aren't presented with too much novel information (causing overload) or too little (causing disengagement), and emphasises that phonics learning requires active engagement and repetition rather than mere exposure. 

Lead the Shift That Lasts
The only whole-school transformation pathway that builds trust, develops teacher thinking, and equips leaders to lead sustainable change from within while building a deep understanding of human cognition and evidence-based practice. 

We are now taking bookings for 2026 to support those who are Leading Learning Success.

Click the link to book your discovery call. https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/leadinglearning

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics