[Vanderson]

Well, by "science based" my understanding is that they could prove the system worked to effectively teach kids to read with predictable results.

[bluGill]

Sure, but all methods teach kids to read. Science of education should include effectiveness. Things such as how well they comprehend, how fast they read, what disabilities they have... note that the above list logically should be in conflict and society should debate the best method bases on the different measures to find good compromises.