Science of Reading Leadership

Join our conversation with Dr. Francesca Smith, a Bilingual Education Specialist and Early Literacy Consultant, as we explore the integration of the science of reading with bilingual education, explore strategies for enhancing foundational literacy skills in multilingual classrooms, and uncover effective ways to support and empower multilingual learners and their families.

• Practical strategies for integrating the science of reading with bilingual education.
• How to leverage students’ native languages to enhance English literacy skills.
• The importance of explicit phonics instruction and its impact on language development.
• Techniques for enhancing parental involvement in multilingual education settings.
• Dr. Smith's recent research findings on the efficacy of explicit cross-linguistic comparisons in literacy instruction.

• 00:59 - Introduction to Dr. Francesca Smith and her background
• 02:20 - Memories of back-to-school and initial teaching experiences
• 04:17 - Discussing the challenges and strategies of teaching in multilingual settings
• 10:27 - Key findings from Dr. Smith's recent research on bilingual education
• 19:17 - The role of parents in supporting multilingual literacy at home
• 28:26 - Long-term implications of bilingual education on teaching practices
• 34:05 - Additional advice for teachers working with multilingual students

Connect with Dr. Francesca Smith

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-smith-edd 

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources: https://justrightreader.com/

Join our conversation with Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer, a leading literacy expert and professor from Virginia Tech, as we explore advanced early reading strategies, dive into the significance of reader-text matching, and unpack the power of morphology and complex vocabulary acquisition.

We discuss:

• Effective techniques for aligning texts with reader capabilities
• Methods for teaching complex vocabulary to early learners
• Insights into the impact of morphology on word structure comprehension
• Comparative analysis of conveying complex vocabulary in narrative versus informational texts
• Practical advice for educators on translating research into classroom practices

Important Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer and her focus areas
• 02:23 Dr. Mesmer shares amusing back-to-school anecdotes.
• 06:06 Discussion on the significance of morphology in literacy
• 14:15 How translational science bridges research and classroom practice
• 22:16 Analyzing the unique challenges of teaching complex vocabulary through narrative and informational texts
• 31:02 Advice for educators to apply this research to classroom instruction 

Connect with Dr. Heidi Anne Mesmer

X: https://x.com/haemesmer

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources: https://justrightreader.com/

In this episode of the Science of Reading Leadership podcast, we're joined by Dr. Sarah Lupo, an associate professor from James Madison University. With a rich background in literacy education, Dr. Lupo delves into the latest research and innovative methods for enhancing literacy instruction. Tune in to hear about Dr. Lupo's passion and easy-to-implement strategies as we start the new school year!

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive Literacy Approach: Dr. Lupo emphasizes the importance of integrating vocabulary instruction with phonics to enhance reading fluency and comprehension, particularly for older students.
• Joyful and Meaningful Learning: Explore the significance of selecting high-quality, engaging texts that resonate with students and enrich their learning experience.
• Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Practices: Discover methods to make literacy instruction more inclusive and relevant to students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
• Engaging Parents and Caregivers: Learn about Dr. Lupo's strategies for engaging families in their children's literacy development, ensuring learning continues at home.

Important Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sarah Lupo and her educational background
• 10:28 Insights on the crucial role of vocabulary in foundational skills
• 15:12 How administrators can support effective literacy instruction
• 22:10 The importance of family engagement in literacy

Connect with Dr. Sarah Lupo

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-m-lupo-ph-d-4308b667/

Website:https://www.jmu.edu/coe/

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources: https://justrightreader.com/

Dr. Laura Tortorelli, Associate Professor at Michigan State University, joins us for a transformative episode of Science of Reading Leadership!

She brings her extensive expertise to discuss her latest research on multisyllabic decoding and foundational reading skills. Dive into this conversation to gain actionable insights to boost reading achievement during the back-to-school season.

We Discuss:

• The Importance of Multisyllabic Decoding: Explore how advancing beyond single-syllable word decoding is crucial for reading fluency and comprehension, especially as students progress in their educational journey.
• Challenges and Strategies for Reading Instruction: Learn about the common hurdles educators face in teaching complex word decoding and the innovative strategies to overcome them.
• Integrating Decoding with Vocabulary Learning: Discover the interconnection between decoding multisyllabic words and enhancing vocabulary.
• Practical Classroom Applications: Gain practical tips for implementing morphological instruction early and integrating vocabulary with decoding to enrich students' reading experiences.
• Engaging Families in Multisyllabic Decoding: Strategies for extending these practices into the home, ensuring consistency and support for students outside the classroom.

Key Moments:

• 00:00  Dr. Tortorelli's introduction and her passion for foundational reading skills.
• 06:16  Insights into the shift from single-syllable decoding to multisyllabic decoding in elementary grades.
• 14:31  The revealing outcomes of the Multisyllabic Decoding Inventory and its implications for classroom instruction.
• 21:50  Discussion on how familiar word roots and morphology aid in decoding and understanding new complex words.
• 24:24 Practical strategies for educators to implement during literacy instruction
• 30:09 Strategies to empower families in literacy development outside of the classroom
• 34:14  Long-term educational implications of enhancing multisyllabic decoding skills.
• 38:19 Dr. Tortorelli’s advice for the beginning of the school year

Connect with Dr. Laura Tortorelli

LinkedIn

Website

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources

In this powerful episode of Science of Reading Leadership, we're joined by Dr. Sonia Cabell, Associate Professor at Florida State University.

She shares invaluable strategies for enhancing early literacy through purposeful classroom conversations, including the Strive for Five strategy.

Learn how minor adjustments in your teaching can lead to major leaps in student literacy and engagement.

• The Power of Small Shifts: Dr. Cabell discusses how minor changes in instructional strategies can significantly enhance student engagement and learning outcomes, especially in reading.
• Responsive Teaching: Emphasis on the importance of back-and-forth conversations in the classroom to boost children's language development and comprehension skills.
• Integrating Content with Literacy: Insights into how blending science and social studies with literacy instruction enriches vocabulary and understanding.
• Practical Strategies for Educators: Dr. Cabell shares actionable tips for teachers to implement these approaches effectively, emphasizing the role of professional development and self-reflection.
• Family and Community Engagement: The critical role of engaging families and communities in the educational process to enhance literacy and language development across settings.

• 00:00: Introduction to the episode and Dr. Sonia Cabell’s background.
• 04:54: Discussion on making small marginal shifts in instruction to maximize your impact on students, including promoting language development through conversations.
• 11:59: Strive for Five conversation techniques to maximize the impact of conversations in the classroom.
• 15:38: How family engagement complements classroom efforts in literacy.
• 23:18: Long-term implications of robust language instruction and the comprehensive development it supports.

Connect with Dr. Cabell

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Website

Accelerate Reading Achievement with Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources

Dr. Timothy Rasinski, Professor of Literacy Education at Kent State University, joins us for an inspiring conversation about the importance of developing reading fluency as part of effective literacy instruction. Having written over 200 articles and 50 books, he brings a wealth of knowledge and insights into how fluency acts as the critical bridge between decoding and comprehension.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Fluency: Fluency is not just about speed; it encompasses automaticity in word recognition and prosody, which reflects expression in reading.
• The Art of Teaching Fluency: Effective fluency instruction combines scientific strategies with creative teaching methods to engage students.
• Repeated Reading and its Impact: Repeated practice improves specific text fluency and enhances general reading abilities.
• Home and School Collaboration: It is crucial to engage parents in their children’s reading development. Simple strategies, like reading and discussing poetry at home, can make a significant difference.
• The Future of Reading Instruction: Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D. .,  emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach beyond phonics to include motivation and cognition, integrating the art of teaching with the science of reading.

Important Timestamps:

00:00 His  journey from economics to literacy education

05:30 The misunderstood aspects of fluency 

08:25 Discussion on the effectiveness of repeated reading practice

15:36 The impact of balanced daily reading instruction

19:30 Practical tips for parents to support reading fluency at home

27:55 Comprehensive elements of the Science of Reading research and the future of literacy instruction

Connect with Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D. 

E-mail: [email protected] 

Website: https://www.timrasinski.com/

X: @timrasinski1

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources: https://justrightreader.com/

In this powerful episode of Science of Reading Leadership, we're joined by Dr. Katharine Pace Miles, Associate Professor at Brooklyn College, City University of New York. Dr. Miles is renowned for her extensive research in orthographic mapping, high-frequency word learning, and developing impactful literacy interventions. With a passion for enhancing teacher education and supporting underserved students, Dr. Miles shares invaluable insights into creating effective literacy programs that promise a brighter future for all learners.

We Discuss:

• Orthographic Mapping: Understand the cognitive processes that help words stick in our memory.
• High-Frequency Word Learning: Unpack the myths and explore strategic approaches to teaching words crucial for early reading success.
• Impactful Interventions: Dive into Dr. Miles’s work with pre-service teachers and her initiatives to provide free, high-quality tutoring to thousands of students.
• Educational Equity: Hear about her dedication to educational equity, focusing on bridging the gap in literacy education for underserved populations through innovative tutoring and teacher training programs.
• Partnerships between Universities and Elementary Schools: Learn strategies for how districts can create more meaningful and effective partnerships with Universities.

Important Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katharine Pace Miles and her academic and research background
• 05:07 Explanation of orthographic mapping and its importance in literacy development
• 10:20 Discussion on the critical role of phonics and foundational skills in reading proficiency
• 20:38 Strategies for leveraging community and family support to enhance literacy interventions
• 29:09 Advice for district leaders on effectively aligning practices with the science of reading and supporting literacy development

Connect with Dr. Miles

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-pace-miles-ph-d-8193a21ab/ 

Website: https://www.katiepacemilesphd.com/

Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources: https://justrightreader.com/

In this episode of Science of Reading Leadership, we’re thrilled to host Lindsay Kemeny, an elementary school teacher, author, and passionate advocate for literacy. Lindsay brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight into what works in teaching students to read effectively. 

We Discuss:

• Inspiration from Experience: Hear how Lindsay's personal challenges with her son's dyslexia propelled her deep dive into literacy research and shaped her teaching methodologies.
• Seven Mighty Moves: Explore the pivotal strategies Lindsay adapted in her classroom to enhance literacy instruction, making her a favorite among K-3 teachers nationwide.
• The Power of Decodables: Understand why decodable books are essential in phonics instruction and how they lay a strong foundation for new readers.
• Support for Educators and Families: Discover Practical steps for educators to assist families in reinforcing reading skills at home.

Important Timestamps:

00:00 Lindsay's background and journey into education.

02:44 Introduction to "Seven Mighty Moves" and the inspiration behind it.

14:28 The critical role of decodable books in reading instruction.

22:07 Importance of the language side of Scarborough’s Reading Rope in a structured literacy program.

27:10 Lindsay's advice for implementing changes in literacy instruction effectively.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation filled with actionable advice for educators at all levels. Whether you’re in the classroom or leading a district, Lindsay’s experiences and strategies offer invaluable insights into promoting successful literacy outcomes.

Connect with Lindsay

Website

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LinkedIn

“If we truly want our students to be fluent readers and comprehenders, we have to start laying that automaticity foundation back when we're teaching letter names and letter sounds and words and phrases.”

Dr. Jan Hasbrouck, renowned researcher, author, and educational consultant, joins us on this Science of Reading Leadership episode to discuss the importance of reading fluency, understanding learning differences like dyslexia, appropriate intervention strategies, and more.

With decades of education experience, Dr. Hasbrouck shares invaluable insights into effective literacy practices and the transformative power of tailored instruction.

Key Takeaways

1. The Essence of Fluency: Dr. Hasbrouck emphasizes that accuracy, not speed, is the foundation of reading fluency. Understanding this can significantly enhance educators' approaches to teaching reading.
2. Individualized Instruction: The importance of tailoring instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, particularly those with dyslexia or other reading challenges.
3. Preventative Approaches in Literacy: Dr. Hasbrouck advocates for early identification and intervention to prevent reading difficulties, highlighting that the right strategies can mitigate nearly all reading challenges.

Timestamps:

00:00  Hasbrouck's journey into education and literacy.

03:41 Insights into the role and evolution of instructional coaching.

08:09 Discussion on the critical nature of reading fluency for student development.

13:17 Exploring the intersection of dyslexia and reading fluency.

22:55 Effective strategies for improving literacy among diverse learners.

27:09 Overview of Dr. Hasbrouck's latest book and its impact on literacy education.

This episode is packed with expert advice and practical strategies that can transform literacy instruction and outcomes. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply passionate about literacy, you'll find valuable insights that can be applied in various educational settings.

Connect with Dr. Hasbrouck

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janhasbrouck/ 

X: https://x.com/janhasbrouck 

Science of Reading Resources

What You Need to Know About the Science of Reading: https://justrightreader.com/blogs/news/science-of-reading-what-you-need-to-know 

Science of Reading Decodables in English and Spanish: www.justrightreader.com

In this powerful Science of Reading Leadership episode, we welcome Natalie Wexler, an esteemed education writer and author of "The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System—And How to Fix It." Natalie shares her extensive experience and dives into how we can bridge the educational divide with effective knowledge-building strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Knowledge Gap: Natalie explains the knowledge gap concept, highlighting the disparity in background knowledge that contributes to the reading comprehension gap between socioeconomically diverse groups.
• Importance of Early Knowledge-Building: Discover the necessity of starting knowledge-building in early education to close the comprehension gap between different student demographics effectively.
• Strategies for Building Knowledge: Natalie provides practical advice on constructing knowledge in the classroom, emphasizing the importance of starting early and using engaging, content-rich materials.
• Role of Writing in Learning: Gain insights into how writing significantly boosts learning and retention by helping transfer and retrieve information from long-term memory.
• Curriculum Development: Learn about the pivotal role of adopting content-rich, knowledge-building curricula in schools.

Important Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction of Natalie Wexler and her contributions to education.

04:26 - Explanation of knowledge-building in K-12 education and its significance.

07:10 - Natalie highlights the importance of comprehension and vocabulary alongside phonics in reading education.

18:25 - Discussion on using a content-rich curriculum and the role of teachers.

21:55 - Natalie's advice for district leaders to accelerate reading achievement.

Connect with Natalie Wexler

Website

LinkedIn

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Science of Reading Resources

What You Need to Know About the Science of Reading

A Guide to High-Quality Structured Literacy Materials