Savvy’s Research-Backed Approach to Reading & Math Success
At Savvy, we believe every child can thrive in reading and math with the right support. That’s why we combine high-dosage tutoring with a research-backed curriculum to deliver measurable results. Our programs are designed by expert educators using Common Core standards, proven instructional methods, and a structured approach that makes learning both fun and effective.
A Structured, Science-Based Approach
Savvy’s reading curriculum is built on the Science of Reading, ensuring children develop strong foundational skills in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Our lessons follow a systematic scope and sequence, with explicit instruction and plenty of practice to help learners build confidence and mastery.
We use principles from Orton-Gillingham, a structured literacy approach that is particularly effective for struggling readers. Each lesson includes a spiral review of previously learned skills to ensure retention and steady progress.
How We Teach Reading at Every Level
Pre-K
Early learners develop phonological awareness, phonics skills, and print concepts through engaging activities, songs, and games.
Kindergarten & 1st Grade
Early readers strengthen phonics, phonological awareness, high-frequency word recognition, and decoding skills through fun, interactive lessons.
2nd Grade
Students build automaticity with phonics patterns, multi-syllabic word reading, high-frequency words, fluency, and comprehension through high-interest nonfiction texts, games, and decodable passages.
Grades 3-5
Students enhance vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and word study through engaging group and independent reading of high-interest fiction and nonfiction texts.
Grade 6
Older readers deepen their comprehension, vocabulary, and word study skills through high-interest fiction and nonfiction texts, fostering advanced literacy development.
Each lesson is designed to be engaging, interactive, and supportive, ensuring kids feel successful and excited about reading!
Building Problem-Solving Confidence
Savvy’s math curriculum is evidence-based and aligned with Common Core standards, using a gradual release of responsibility model. This method helps learners build confidence by first seeing a concept demonstrated, then working with guided support, and finally practicing independently.
We use CRA (Concrete-Representational-Abstract) methods to help children deeply understand math concepts. This means students first explore problems, then use visual representations before moving into abstract problem-solving.
Key features of Savvy’s math instruction
Explicit problem-solving strategies to build confidence
Visual learning supports to deepen understanding
Real-world applications to make math meaningful
Spiral review to reinforce skills and ensure mastery
The Power of High-Dosage Tutoring
Savvy’s approach is backed by research showing that frequent, high-quality tutoring leads to significant learning gains. High-dosage tutoring means frequent, structured, small-group or 1-on-1 sessions that allow for deep engagement, immediate feedback, and personalized instruction.
Why High-Dosage Tutoring Works
More Time on Task
Kids get the practice they need to master skills
Immediate Feedback
Tutors correct mistakes and guide students in real time
Personalized Learning
Each child gets targeted support based on their unique needs
Confidence Boosting
Frequent sessions create a steady rhythm of success
Research shows that students receiving high-dosage tutoring can learn up to an additional year’s worth of material compared to those without it. By combining this model with a strong, research-backed curriculum, Savvy ensures that every learner gets the support they need to succeed.
