The next chapter in the Science of Reading
Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) is the original Science of Reading program: a proven, research-based reading curriculum that has transformed literacy instruction for grades K–5. For more than a decade, CKLA has helped students grow into confident readers, writers, and thinkers while giving teachers the tools to inspire curiosity and deepen comprehension.
Together, we’re shaping a new generation of learners, one chapter at a time. Let’s write the next chapter in the Science of Reading.
Proven results, trusted research
180k+
Classrooms
4M+
Students
50
U.S. states + D.C.
Here’s what school leaders across the country say about why they love Amplify CKLA.
See the evidence behind the success. Explore Amplify CKLA’s research, efficacy, and case studies to learn more about our proven approach to improving literacy outcomes.
Our Approach
Built on research and proven to meet the strongest ESSA Tier I criteria
Amplify CKLA combines explicit foundational skills instruction with deep knowledge building to deliver measurable, lasting results.
In this video, Susan Lambert introduces the 3rd edition of Amplify CKLA, featuring enhanced writing instruction, expanded support for diverse learners, and streamlined pacing. Discover how this Science of Reading approach builds both foundational skills and rich knowledge across subjects while fostering confident writers and communicators.
Grounded in the Science of Reading
As the original Science of Reading program, Amplify CKLA turns research into classroom results. The curriculum’s comprehensive approach includes key elements designed for effective literacy development:
- Explicit, systematic skills instruction that supports decoding and fluency.
- A proven knowledge-building sequence that deepens comprehension.
- Resources and support created with educators and literacy experts.
Knowledge that sticks
A coherent, cumulative approach to knowledge building:
- Strengthens comprehension through intentional, connected learning.
- Raises reading scores and closes achievement gaps.
- Connects learning within and across grades through topics in science, social studies, literature, and the arts.
Amplify CKLA takes this even further with the most robust knowledge sequence of any core literacy program—proven to help students retain and apply what they learn. It’s also the only program offering Choice Units, giving districts unmatched flexibility while staying fully standards-aligned.
Foundational skills through Grade 5
From sounds to spelling to fluent reading, students develop a complete foundation for literacy success. In grades K–2, Amplify CKLA explicitly teaches the 150 spellings for the 44 sounds of English in a structured progression that ensures mastery. Grades 3–5 continue skill instruction through integrated lessons or targeted intervention, allowing every student to advance at their own pace within this elementary language arts curriculum.
Daily writing that deepens learning
Students using Amplify CKLA write every day, learning handwriting, spelling, and composition through purposeful practice that connects reading, thinking, and expression. From combining sentences to organizing narratives, each activity strengthens communication and reinforces comprehension. Over time, students gain the clarity and confidence to express their ideas with purpose.
Texts that inspire
Students explore stories and informational texts that build knowledge, spark imagination, and connect learning across subjects.
- K–2: 100% decodable readers let students apply new skills immediately.
- 3–5: Studies of novels inspire reflection, discussion, and critical thinking.
- All grades: Culminating Research Units use authentic nonfiction trade books to extend curiosity.
Reach every learner
Every day with Amplify CKLA reinforces learning. Embedded scaffolds and enrichment opportunities guarantee meaningful participation for all students, including multilingual/English learners. Language Studio extends this foundation with dedicated English language development, delivering aligned reading, writing, listening, and speaking lessons that support the core curriculum.
What’s included
Amplify CKLA provides comprehensive, easy-to-use resources that make teaching effective and engaging in every classroom.
Teacher materials
Everything educators need to plan, teach, assess, and adapt instruction is included in one place:
- Teacher Guides
- Assessment Guides
- Authentic texts and trade books
- Image cards and flip books
- Read-Aloud Big Books (K–1)
- Presentation screens
- Remediation and intervention resources
- On-demand professional learning
Student materials
Students engage with a full set of print and digital tools that build skills, knowledge, and confidence across grades:
- Decodable readers (K–2)
- Student Readers and novels (3–5)
- Activity Books
- Poet’s and Writer’s Journals (3–5)
- eReaders
- The Sound Library
- Practice games
Literary experiences
A rich collection of authentic texts invites students to read widely, think deeply, and explore ideas across subjects, including the following:
- Trade book nonfiction collections
- Poetry units (2–5)
- Classic and contemporary novel studies (3–5)
Hands-on phonics materials
Multisensory tools help students internalize sound-symbol relationships and practice foundational skills with repetition and variety:
- Chaining folders with letter cards (K)
- Blending picture cards (K)
- Large letter cards (K–1)
- Sound Cards (K–2)
- Consonant and Vowel Code Posters and Spelling Cards (1–2)
Digital platform
The Amplify Classroom platform brings planning, assessment, reporting, and student practice together in one accessible hub:
- Presentation screens
- Auto-scored assessments and reporting
- Assignable practice games
- eReaders
- Sound library (K–2)
- On-demand professional development
Amplify CKLA impact
When schools implement Amplify CKLA, they see transformation in both student achievement and teacher confidence.
- Students achieve significant reading gains, advancing from beginning readers to fluent comprehenders.
- Educators report increased confidence and engagement across all learners.
- Built-in supports ensure meaningful growth for all students, regardless of background.
Ready to continue your learning journey?
We also offer live, tailored professional learning sessions by expert partners to boost, expand, and enrich your Science of Reading expertise, strengthen implementation, and improve student outcomes.
Why choose this Amplify program?
Amplify CKLA isn’t new to the Science of Reading—it’s been aligned with Science of Reading research since day one.
Proven, research-backed, and part of a complete literacy and biliteracy suite, Amplify CKLA continues to set the standard while others are still catching up.
- Proven Effective.
Meets ESSA Tier I criteria. Transparent research shows consistent student growth. - Deep knowledge building over time.
Coherent, cumulative sequence that connects learning across subjects. - Foundational skills through 5th grade.
Explicit instruction and targeted support in every grade. - Connected literacy and biliteracy suite.
Seamlessly integrates with Amplify assessment, intervention, and Spanish programs. - Science of Reading leadership.
The original Science of Reading program is based on decades of research.
Other programs
- Research findings are limited, inconclusive, or funded by the programs themselves.
- Isolated lessons lack a coherent thread connecting grades and subjects.
- Foundational skills are deprioritized beyond grade 3.
- No Spanish-language support or integration with intervention and assessment tools.
- Repackaged materials that rushed to align with Science of Reading trends.
Pair with powerful companion programs
Amplify’s literacy suite strengthens instruction for every learner and every tier of support.
Deepen connections between classroom instruction and home.
Our AI Teacher Tools enable teachers to generate decodables aligned to the Science of Reading, translate caregiver letters into twenty languages, and more.
Join the movement
Frequently asked questions about Amplify CKLA
Choosing the right literacy curriculum is an important decision for your school or district. These answers to frequently asked questions provide key information about Amplify CKLA to help you understand how the program works and how it can support your literacy goals.
A core language arts program is a comprehensive reading curriculum that teaches foundational skills; builds knowledge through rich texts; and supports writing, vocabulary, and comprehension instruction across the school year. Amplify CKLA serves as a full core program for grades K–5, giving teachers everything they need for daily literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading.
Teachers receive print and digital materials such as guides, assessments, trade books, and planning resources. Students engage with readers, activity books, phonics materials, and online practice tools.
See What’s Included.
Amplify CKLA is a PreK–5 language arts program. In Grades K–2, explicit foundational skills and knowledge-building are taught simultaneously through two parallel strands, which then integrate into one unified strand in Grades 3–5, with greater emphasis on complex texts and writing.
Amplify CKLA is the original Science of Reading program, built on decades of research into how children learn to read and write. It combines explicit, systematic foundational skills instruction with a content-specific, coherent, and cumulative knowledge-building approach. The program’s effectiveness is backed by ESSA Tier 1 (the strongest) evidence. Learn more about the research.
If your school is looking for a research-based, inclusive reading program that supports all learners, then yes! Amplify CKLA is likely a strong fit for your K–5 setting.
Language Studio provides targeted English language development aligned to Amplify CKLA lessons. Built-in scaffolds also make core instruction accessible to every student.
The Amplify Classroom platform provides presentation screens, auto-scored assessments, standards-based reporting, eReaders, and practice games, accessible on classroom devices with internet connection.