According to G. Reid Lyon, what percentage of students can learn to read on their own?

G. Reid Lyon, a prominent figure in reading research, has indicated that a very small percentage of students, specifically around 5%, have the ability to learn to read on their own without structured instruction. This figure highlights the critical need for effective reading programs and support systems, as it emphasizes that most students benefit from direct instruction, especially those who struggle with literacy.

The statistic underscores the challenges faced by many learners and stresses the importance of tactical approaches such as the Multi-Sensory Structured Language Education (MSLE) methodology, which provides comprehensive support for all learners, particularly those who do not naturally acquire reading skills. Most students require varied instructional strategies to succeed in reading, making this insight pivotal for educators and practitioners in developing effective teaching methodologies.