Three cueing

Three cueing, also known as the searchlight model or MSV (which stands for meaning, syntax, and visual information), is a controversial method of teaching young children how to read. It involves guessing the meaning of unfamiliar words based on context clues, as opposed to phonics, the more traditional method of sounding out words. The method originated in the 1960s out of the work of Ken Goodman and Marie Clay, and soon saw widespread adoption in classrooms in the United States. The related theories of balanced literacy and whole language both utilize three cueing. Questions over the effectiveness of three cueing arose even prior to its widespread adoption. The method is frequently criticized as contrary to the known science of reading and as potentially having long-term damaging effects on children's reading abilities. Critics say over-reliance on context can cause confusion between related or similarly spelled words, and that strategies taught by three cueing are reflective of those used by weak readers.