Improving reading comprehension in young children through targeted language interventions

Translating research into school-based practice via small-group, language-focused comprehension intervention

NIH-funded research Mgh Institute of Health Professions · NIH-11000775

This study is testing a special reading program called Let's Know! to help first graders who struggle with language skills, making it easier for them to understand what they read.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMgh Institute of Health Professions NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlestown, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11000775 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance reading comprehension skills in Grade 1 children who are at risk for difficulties due to low language abilities. It focuses on a small-group intervention called Let's Know!, which has been adapted from a successful whole-class curriculum. The program systematically targets both lower- and higher-level language skills to provide effective language stimulation in a school setting. By delivering instruction in small groups, the research seeks to provide tailored support to children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and similar challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Grade 1 children aged 6-7 years who are at risk for reading comprehension failure due to low language abilities.

Not a fit: Children who do not exhibit any language difficulties or who are already proficient in reading comprehension may not benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve reading comprehension skills in young children, helping them succeed academically.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar language-focused interventions in improving comprehension skills among children with language impairments.

Where this research is happening

Charlestown, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.