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Have you ever wondered if the ticking of a timer could transform reading fluency in young learners? Join us on this episode of the Structured Literacy Podcast as we untangle the complexities of using timed reading in primary education. I recount my journey from initial skepticism to embracing a more nuanced understanding of this technique. We delve into the intricate components of fluency—accuracy, automaticity, and prosody—and discuss how these elements interconnect rather than stand alone. Using a blend of research, teacher wisdom, and student insights, we aim to shed light on the absence of specific studies either advocating for or opposing the use of timers in classrooms, sparking a conversation on the thoughtful application tailored to each child's needs.

We question the blanket use of timed readings and instead propose personalized strategies that focus on familiar texts and adult guidance to ensure comprehension and accuracy. Rushing to meet time constraints can backfire, especially for those with reading difficulties or anxiety. We emphasize the importance of wide reading and phonics over the disruptive potential of timers and partner reading. Our discussion underscores the importance of context-specific research applications and a commitment to growing our instructional approaches. Let's embrace evidence-informed teaching with an open mind and a dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment.

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

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#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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In this episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, Jocelyn examines the common classroom practice of bringing one student to the front to answer questions, arguing that while it benefits the chosen student, it creates passive learning experiences for the rest of the class whose attention spans are already limited. Drawing on research showing that Grade 1 students can maintain on-task behaviour for only about 7 minutes in natural classroom settings and citing Stanislas Dehaene's work on attention development, she demonstrates how this practice creates self-regulation challenges, split teacher attention, and extraneous cognitive load particularly when used late in lessons when students' "executive functioning fuel" is depleted. 

Jocelyn advocates for evidence-informed alternatives including having all students participate simultaneously, building movement into lessons every 10 minutes to maintain engagement, and questioning whether common program practices are truly research-aligned, emphasising that effective instruction requires full participation rather than passive observation. 

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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This week, we are going to have a spring clean. In this episode, I'll share a practice that I think we should reconsider.

I'm not focusing on this practice in the episode because I think it should be forever banished or because I want to criticize past practices. I've used this practice myself, but I'd like to encourage you to consider whether it is having the maximum impact in your classroom.

So, without further ado, grab your feather duster, and let's dive in and discuss News Time or, as some call it, Show and Tell.

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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In this episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, Jocelyn explores why traditional professional learning fails to improve student outcomes, drawing on research from Joyce and Showers to demonstrate that effective teacher knowledge building requires more than one-off workshops or program implementation. She explains how knowledge exists on a continuum from tacit/implicit (what we know but can't explain) through explicit and practical to theoretical knowledge, emphasising that transformation between these types requires high-quality collaboration, supportive leadership, professional guidance, and coaching rather than simply "plopping" new techniques into classrooms without understanding when and why to use them. 

Drawing on a 2022 study by Li and Sang reviewing 36 research papers, Jocelyn argues for a "slow-learning movement" that focuses on practices and principles of instruction rather than programs alone, advocating for sustained coaching that helps teachers integrate new learning with existing practice through testing, evaluation, and gradual transfer to achieve genuine student outcomes. 

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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How can educators transcend the rote memorisation of teaching steps to foster genuine understanding and meaningful learning? Join me, Jocelyn, on this episode of the Structured Literacy Podcast as we uncover the intricate relationships between cognitive load theory, literacy frameworks, and effective classroom practices. We'll dissect Timothy Shanahan's latest insights on the importance of purpose-driven education and explore how building a robust foundation of declarative knowledge can revolutionise both teaching and learning experiences.

We'll also confront the cognitive biases that often skew our self-assessments, spotlighting the Dunning-Kruger effect and its startling implications for educators. Using real-world examples and pivotal research, I'll illustrate how this phenomenon can hinder teaching effectiveness and share strategies to overcome these biases. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that could redefine your approach to education and help you build deeper, more impactful connections with your students.

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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What if implementing a new teaching program could transform your school's instructional practices and student outcomes? Promise kept! Join us on the Structured Literacy Podcast as we unpack the critical elements of successfully rolling out these initiatives. From meticulous planning to effective execution, we guide you through the journey educators will undertake—from initial excitement to achieving high commitment and skill levels. We tackle common pitfalls, such as merging old and new methods, and share best practices for making thoughtful decisions about what to retain and discard.

In the next segment, we focus on establishing strong instruction within the critical first four to six weeks of a new program. Discover how regular check-ins, video reviews, and collaborative feedback sessions can help maintain consistency and build fluency among teachers. We emphasize the importance of continuous coaching and structured staff meetings to keep educators motivated and accountable. Finally, learn how to foster a culture of growth by encouraging experimentation and learning from challenges, using existing support structures to elevate teaching and learning practices. Tune in for your comprehensive guide to ensuring the successful implementation of new teaching programs in your school.

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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What if you could transform your spelling lessons from monotonous drills to engaging, multi-dimensional learning experiences? This week on the Structured Literacy Podcast, we promise you'll discover how to make spelling instruction both explicit and exciting. Jocelyn shatters the myth that structured teaching is synonymous with dull repetition. By integrating phonics, orthography, morphology, and etymology, you'll learn to teach your students not just to spell, but to understand the very fabric of words.

This episode delivers clear, actionable strategies for teachers in grades three to six. Learn how to maintain a singular focus during lessons, ensure comprehensive practice, and provide meaningful applications in texts. We also spotlight the significance of building declarative knowledge—teaching students to grasp the principles of prefixes, suffixes, and word structure. Finally, Jocelyn addresses the common concern that this method might be too rigid, emphasizing that your enthusiasm and flexibility are key to making spelling instruction both effective and enjoyable. Don't miss this opportunity to supercharge your teaching methods and captivate your students!

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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Our literacy blocks are so full that it's difficult to find time for all of the things we need to fit in, including morphology.   In this week's episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, I share tips for finding time for this important area of instruction in both the early years and upper primary grades. 

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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In this episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, Jocelyn explores the nuanced debate around scripted teaching programs, moving beyond polarised views to examine when and why such approaches might be appropriate. Drawing on Ken Blanchard's Situational Leadership Model, she explains how teachers at different stages, from enthusiastic beginners needing high direction to peak performers requiring autonomy, have varying needs for structured guidance, suggesting that scripted programs may suit novices but could frustrate experienced educators who need flexibility to respond to student needs in real-time. 

Rather than advocating for or against scripting, Jocelyn promotes "full guidance support" that provides robust structure and consistency while preserving teachers' professional judgement to adapt instruction based on classroom dynamics, warning against swinging from unstructured approaches to over-scripted teaching that removes the human element essential for responsive, effective instruction. 

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics

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In this episode of the Structured Literacy podcast, Jocelyn addresses the common challenge of tracking student reading progress and communicating with parents after moving away from traditional benchmark assessments, which she argues were "made up" without research foundations. 

She introduces a free tool called "From Phonics to Uncontrolled Texts: An Instructional Framework For Moving Into, Through and Past Decodable Texts," featuring 16 research-based milestones that track students from early reading through skilled decoding to reading uncontrolled texts at 90 words per minute. The framework captures nuanced reading skills often missing from existing assessments, including comprehension monitoring, set for variability, and prosody, while working alongside rather than replacing phonics assessments and normed screeners. 

Jocelyn emphasises that while the tool provides visual progress tracking for students, families, and staff, its deeper purpose is building teacher knowledge and capacity to make informed instructional decisions beyond simply following programs, ultimately moving educators from knowing what to do to understanding why they're doing it. 

Are your students good readers, but poor spellers? If so, you are not alone. Spelling Success in Action addresses phonics, orthography, and morphology to give students a well-rounded understanding of how our language system works. 

Find out how you can help your students move beyond guessing and memorisation at https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/spelling2

Quick Links
Jocelyn Seamer Education Homepage
The Resource Room
Youtube channel
Facebook Page

#jocelynseamereducation #literacy #bestpractice #earlyprimaryyears #primaryschool #primaryschools #primaryschoolteacher #earlyyearseducation #earlyyearseducator #structuredliteracy #scienceofreading #classroom #learning #learningisfun #studentsuccess #studentsupport #teacherlife #theresourceroom #theevergreenteacher #upperprimary #upperprimaryteacher #thestructuredliteracypodcast #phoneme #grapheme #phonics #syntheticphonics