Program Description

"HD Word is a set of lessons that build the important and lifelong foundations needed for all future academic and life success. The lessons systematically teach the essential phonics structures that unlock the English code in both simple and complex words." According to the website, HD Word can be used as whole-class, supplemental (Tier I) instruction for second and third graders, and as Tier II/Tier III intervention for grades 2 through 12.

Cost

Pricing varies by classroom package. Additional components available for purchase. Contact the sales team for additional information (e.g., receive a customized quote).

Intended Population

• Core
• Intervention
• Intensified intervention

Grade

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Intended Group Size

• Any

ELL/DLL

• Partial

Multisensory Applications

• Yes

Delivery Method

• Hybrid / blended delivery

Scripted

• Instructor Scripted

Comprehensive or Skill Specific

• Skill Specific

Placement Tests

• Unspecified

Accelerated Learning

• Unspecified

Assessment to Monitor Skills Mastery

• Yes

Error Correction Built In

• Yes

Fidelity Measures Provided by Publisher

• Unspecified

Research Summary

One third-party study found that students who participated in the HD Word program showed significant gains in reading skills, as measured by the STAR reading assessment. A more recent third-party study also reported positive effects, finding that students who received HD Word instruction scored significantly higher on NWEA MAP Reading assessments the following school year than those who did not receive Really Great Reading (RGR)-aligned instruction. Test scores indicated no summer learning loss. However, it is important to note that the studies were specially prepared for RGR and are not peer-reviewed. Since no peer-reviewed research was found, there is insufficient evidence to support the program's effectiveness.

Study Citations

SEG Measurement. (2018). Helping struggling readers in a Title One elementary school: Implementing Really Great Reading. Really Great Reading. https://www.reallygreatreading.com/sites/default/files/rgr_cafferata_case_study_6.13.18_0.pdf

Lee, A., & Shah, M. (2023). Really Great Reading: Examining impacts among urban charter school students. LearnPlatform. https://www.reallygreatreading.com/sites/default/files/Study-1-RGR-Study-1-ESSA-Level-II-Report_updated_20250721.pdf

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

• Insufficient evidence