Movement Based Literacy for Neurodiverse Learners

TAG VITAAL-K™ in Action
 

Overview

TAG VITAAL-K Coaching™ delivers the science of reading through rhythmic, full-body routines that activate cognitive, emotional, and linguistic systems simultaneously. Each workout is a structured progression through TAG’s four-phase therapeutic model, designed to optimize brain chemistry, encode orthographic patterns, and build mastery through movement.

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Phase One: Neurochemical Activation through HIITT

Students begin by engaging in High-Intensity Interval TAG Techniques (HIITT)—short, rhythmic bursts of movement that stimulate the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and BDNF. These neurochemicals are essential for attention, motivation, and memory consolidation. This phase primes the brain for deep learning while regulating arousal and executive function.

 

Phase Two: Filling the Phonological Files through Rhythmic Encoding

In this phase, students merge movement with meaning. Through choreographed routines, they encode syllabic and phonemic spelling sequences into their phonological and orthographic lexicons. These multisensory drills build a mental dictionary of syllabic sounds and spelling sequences, enabling rapid decoding and sight word acquisition. Our goal is to embed spellings and sounds into the head so that they can be read.

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This is where TAG VITAAL-K™ shines—by accelerating orthographic mapping through joyful, embodied repetition. TAG facilitates rapid word recognition through rhythmic athletic repetition.

 

Phase Three: Retrieval and Transfer

Students then practice retrieving stored spelling patterns to decode and spell unfamiliar words. This phase emphasizes flexible application, helping learners transfer their embodied knowledge to real reading and writing tasks.

TAG VITAAL-K™ supports this transfer by reinforcing the neural pathways between sound, symbol, and meaning. TAG anchors orthographic memory in movement.

 

Phase Four: Mastery through Movement

To solidify mastery, students revisit target spellings through HIITT-based review cycles. These high-energy repetitions are synchronized with syllabic spellings and sounds, ensuring automaticity and long-term retention.

This final phase completes the TAG VITAAL-K™ loop—transforming literacy instruction into a dynamic, brain-priming experience.