Literacy Talks

In the Season 6 premiere of Literacy Talks, hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny dive into their experiences at the Big Sky Literacy Summit 2024. They discuss standout moments, including John Maxwell’s transformative keynote and Dr. Tiffany Hogan’s insights on bridging research and practice. The trio also covers practical takeaways on oral language, dyslexia, and classroom routines, emphasizing the need for intentionality in teaching and data-driven decisions. Tune in for a reflective look at the conference and a peek into plans for the next Big Sky event. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: John MaxwellDr. Danielle ‘Nell’ ThompsonDr. Tiffany HoganDr. Holly LaneDr. Leslie LaudDr. Julie WashingtonResources: Big Sky Literacy Summit 2024EdReportsThe Reading League Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Switching between different cognitive tasks is critical in the classroom. Students learn one word can have multiple meanings. They move from one subject to another. This episode of Literacy Talks focuses squarely on cognitive flexibility, its role in executive function, and how literacy educators can help students build these skills to be confident, capable thinkers and readers. So, get set to learn more about cognitive flexibility and why it matters. You can help students learn about changing their minds, switching from one idea to another, and simultaneously holding multiple viewpoints and thoughts. This episode gives us all a great deal to think about! Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Hollis ScarboroughResources: Change of Mind: Cognitive Flexibility in the ClassroomLiteracy Lexicon: Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Our trio of experts takes a deep dive into statistics, looking at the data and trends in general education and what those numbers might mean for literacy instruction. An example? The average student-to-teacher ratio in elementary grades is 15 students to 1 teacher. What does that point to? As our hosts see it, smaller class sizes can reduce some of the need for small-group instruction because teachers have more time to spend with students individually as needed. That’s just the start of this eye-opening, number-crunching episode. You can count on gathering some insightful data from this episode of Literacy Talks. Show Notes Literacy Leaders Maryanne WolfResources AcadienceESGIReferences “Average Salary of Classroom Teachers in Public Schools in the U.S. From 1980 to 2021.” “Back-to-School Statistics” “Educational Institutions.” “K-12 Facts.” “Estimated Average Salary of Public School Teachers in the United States in 2020-2021, by State.” “12 Powerful Statistics That Prove Why Teachers Matter.” “A Coming Crisis in Teaching? Teacher Supply, Demand, and Shortages in the U.S.” “Digest of Education Statistics.” “National Teacher and Principal Survey: Average and Median Age of Public School Teachers and Percentage Distribution of Teachers by Age Category, Sex, and State: 2017-18.” “Teacher Characteristics and Trends.” “Characteristics of Public School Teachers.” “Data Point: Race and Ethnicity of Public School Teachers and Their Students.” Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

As we work to improve how we teach phonics, phonemic awareness, and word recognition while adding in writing instruction and content knowledge, we’re all working toward a key goal. It’s reading comprehension. In this episode of Literacy Talks, we turn our attention to comprehension and the tapestry of skills that come together for readers and learners of all ages as they read for meaning, knowledge, and the sheer joy of learning and discovery. This episode delivers best practices for building knowledge and will give you a new understanding of—that’s right—understanding what we read! Show Notes Literacy Leaders Dr. Hugh CattsResources Rethinking How to Promote Reading ComprehensionDeveloping an R&D Program to Improve Reading ComprehensionThe Big Sky Literacy SummitNAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress)Ending the Reading Wars: Reading Acquisition From Novice to ExpertReading for Understanding Toward an R&D Program in Reading Comprehension Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

As momentum continues to build for instructional practices and strategies rooted in the science of reading, sometimes controversies can arise. In this episode of Literacy Talks, Stacy, Donell, and Lindsay tackle some of the little disagreements among well-meaning, well-informed educators, all from the perspective of sharing information, supporting colleagues, and strengthening our literacy community. From best practices in introducing the alphabet’s letters and sounds to the concepts of blends and blending, get in touch with the topics and ideas that keep the literacy community talking. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Dr. Shayne PiastaDr. Steve DykstraDr. Sally ShaywitzDr. Louisa MoatsResources: AcadienceLeap Frog Letter Factory Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Dyslexia is often misunderstood, missed altogether, and surrounded by myths. In this episode of Literacy Talks, our literacy experts revisit the state of dyslexia. From gaps in professionals’ knowledge to challenges in early identification and intervention, we need more and better conversations, bolder advocacy, and strong systemic support. In short, there’s work to do, and this episode will enrich and deepen the path forward. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Dr. Tim OdegardDr. Sally ShaywitzResources Too Many Schools Are Misdiagnosing DyslexiaDyslexia in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to KnowCurriculum Evaluation GuidelinesOvercoming Dyslexia Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

As literacy instruction evolves and improves and the science of reading informs classroom practice more and more, we all need to make room for each other’s ideas, perspectives, and expertise. In this episode of Literacy Talks, our hosts ask themselves and teachers everywhere if we’re being too judgmental. How can we approach conversations with colleagues as we strive to improve students’ reading proficiency together? From guidelines for productive conversations to kinder, gentler ways to share best practices and insights, this episode will inspire you to think about ways to help colleagues and grow professionally. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Dr. Steve DykstraEmily HanfordDr. David KilpatrickMitchell BrookinsLeslie LaudDr. Tracy White-WeedenResources: Think Again by Adam Grant Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

There is much to know as we teach foundational and more advanced literacy. Here’s where questions arise. How much do teachers need to know about the science of reading to be effective and successful in the classroom? A related question: How much do students need to know about technical reading and language terms to develop and grow their literacy skills and confidence? In this episode, our trio of literacy experts looks at reading terminology and who needs to know what so learners become readers. Take away some insight and perspective every educator can use to hone their practice. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Hollis ScarboroughChristopher SuchLouisa MoatsResources: The misunderstood limits of folk science: an illusion of explanatory depthScarborough's Reading RopeTeaching Reading Is Rocket Science Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

In October of 2023, The Reading Council of North America filed a lawsuit against Ohio, attempting to reverse the state’s move to align classroom instruction to the science of reading principles and practices. In this episode of Literacy Talks, our hosts discuss the growing momentum behind instruction based in the science of reading and the importance of looking closely, carefully, and analytically at the research that supports any approach. Listeners will hear common sense, clear thinking, and data-informed perspectives about choosing curricula and staying involved in legislative initiatives. Educator voices matter! Let’s get started. Show Notes Literacy Leaders: Dr. Steve DykstraEmily HanfordResources: Education WeekReading Recovery Sues Ohio Over Ban on ‘Cueing’ in Literacy InstructionThomas B. Fordham InstituteIt’s time to dump Reading RecoveryEducation WeekTwo Decades of Progress, Nearly Gone: National Math, Reading Scores Hit Historic LowsThe Reading LeagueInternational Foundation for Effective Reading Instruction (IFERI) Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

The Orton-Gillingham approach to teaching literacy is growing in popularity for students with dyslexia, and now it is often included in state-level education policy. In this episode of Literacy Talks, our hosts talk in-depth about the research supporting key components of the “OG” approach and explore where additional research is needed. The spark for this conversation is an important article published in October of 2023 in The Reading League Journal. Tune in and learn more about what’s known and what’s yet to be studied. It will reaffirm some things you know and open the door to new learning. As educators, we know there’s always more to learn about reading instruction. Let’s get started. Show Notes Literacy Leaders Samuel Orton and Anna GillinghamDr. Steven DykstraDr. Lucy Hart PaulsonDevin Kearns, Ph.D.Resources: Orton-Gillingham: Which Aspects are Supported by Research and Which Require Additional Research?Orton-Gillingham Academy—What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach? Build Your Literacy Lexicon MTSS: Multi-Tiered System of Support is an educational approach that provides personalized assistance and guidance to students based on their varying needs, ensuring they have the necessary resources to excel academically and thrive socially and emotionally. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Whether you attended the Plain Talk 2024 Conference or wish you did, this episode is a whirlwind wrap-up of the event. From our hosts’ responses to several keynote presentations to quick summaries of the breakout sessions that made an impact, you’ll get the inside story about how the literacy community embraces science of reading instruction. You’ll also hear about new research and how this data can impact educators’ practice. From great takeaway phrases like “We need a call to curiosity…” to “One caring adult makes all the difference…” you’ll get post-conference perspectives that will fuel your professional learning. So sit back and enjoy an auditory field trip to #PlainTalkNOLA 2024. Show Notes Literacy Leaders Dr. Linnea EhriDevin Kearns, Ph.D.Dr. John HodgeJohn HattieCarolyn Strom, Ph.D.Maryanne WolfStephanie Stollar, Ph.D.Resources Institute for Multi-Sensory EducationJohn Hattie presentation slide Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

There is new interest in small group instruction as a key component of early literacy learning. Some educators are talking about skipping the small groups. Others have important ideas about making small group instruction better and more effective. In this episode, our hosts explore strategies and tactics for organizing, supporting, and evaluating small group instructional time. From carefully grouping students as their skills grow to using technology and audiobooks, this in-depth look at small groups will give every educator new ideas and important insights into making small groups BIG contributors to student progress. You may even want to gather a small group of colleagues to listen to this episode! Show Notes Resources Maximizing Small-Group Reading InstructionNational Reading Panel ReportEpicBuild Your Literacy Lexicon Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Season 5 of Literacy Talks begins with a visit from special guest Dr. Elfrieda “Freddie” Hiebert, noted researcher, educator, author, and president and CEO of TextProject, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on bringing beginning and struggling readers to high levels of literacy using a variety of strategies and tools, particularly the texts used for reading instruction. In this episode, our hosts explore how small changes in teaching vocabulary and text complexity can lead to big differences in students’ literacy growth. From helping students unlock the treasure box of vocabulary to remembering that language and literacy are always about meaning, this episode invites educators to the world of words and enriching literacy instruction. Show Notes Literacy Leaders Dr. Elfrieda HiebertDr. Hugh CattsDavid ShareWilliam S. GrayEdward FryPaul HannaResources Text Project websiteTeaching Words and How They WorkEight Days a Week (The Beatles)Build Your Literacy Lexicon Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

As the saying goes, “That’s a wrap!” This episode closes Season 4 of Literacy Talks. Our listening audience has grown remarkably, and we’re grateful to every educator who tunes in to share the gift of literacy with us and our special guests. Join our trio of terrific literacy leaders, Stacy Hurst, Lindsay Kemeny, and Donell Pons, for a retrospective look at the season’s most memorable guests and topics. From the launch of Lindsay’s new book, 7 Mighty Moves, to our groundbreaking four-part series that unpacks the seminal work on ending the reading wars by authors Castles, Rastle, and Nation, you’ll pick up highlights and nuggets worth remembering. We’ll also turn our focus forward to help teachers keep the reading momentum going strong in the run-up to and beyond the winter break. In that spirit, you’ll hear some unforgettable and inspirational thoughts about the importance of everyone who teaches students to read. Join us for some joy and affirmation, and watch for announcements of Season 5 coming soon! Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

How can we encourage young learners to become confident writers? It’s a question every elementary classroom teacher continues to ponder. In this episode of Literacy Talks, writing takes center stage as our hosts explore how to rethink writing workshop strategy and transform it so students can build a solid foundation for writing—from the basics of letter formation to the creativity that comes from expressing and communicating ideas. Like early reading instruction, early writing instruction benefits from explicit, systematic methods, with writing skills developing in tandem with reading. If you’re looking for effective ideas for building writing skills as part of everyday literacy instruction, this episode will give you a wealth of ideas and inspiration. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

Students’ ability to write fluently is important for literacy success. This episode tackles how we can confidently and carefully teach handwriting so students can make critical connections between the shape of letters, the construction of words, and the meaning of their writing and reading. From helping young learners write legibly to building knowledge of the alphabet, this episode will give every educator new ways to think about writing automaticity and fluency. Our terrific hosts share tips, tricks, and resources they turn to as they teach handwriting to students and educators alike. So pop in those earbuds and get ready to take notes about teaching students to write in this episode of Literacy Talks! Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

The Reading League Conference 2023 was a high-energy, high-impact event, and our three Literacy Talks hosts were there. This episode voices their observations on the conference’s many noteworthy sessions, key takeaways, and new insights about research and classroom practice. From Kareem Weaver’s unforgettable message of love to standout sessions from the profession’s leading researchers and practitioners, including Katie Pace Miles, Dr. Tiffany Hogan, Steve Dykstra, and more, this episode delivers a recap of one of the year’s most important science of reading events. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

With this episode of Literacy Talks, our literacy experts wrap up a four-part mini-series exploring the article Ending the Reading Wars: Reading Acquisition from Novice to Expert by Anne Castles, Kathleen Rastle, and Kate Nation. The trio shines a spotlight on the complex, multi-faceted nature of reading comprehension and how both decoding and linguistic comprehension come together as students learn to understand written language. Listeners will gain helpful insight into the layers of skills students need to know and master so they can construct meaning from text. And, of course, there’s a lively conversation about how to apply this information in the classroom so student reading proficiency soars. Don’t miss this opportunity to understand more about the critical path to comprehension. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

“There’s more to learning to read than phonics…” This statement is true, but without phonics at the core of foundational literacy, the progression from beginning reading to fluent reading is at risk. In this episode of Literacy Talks, our three hosts look at skilled word reading and how the process develops in children. From decoding to spelling, from spelling to sound, and then from sound to meaning, skilled word reading takes both experience and time with text. The answer? It’s not either/or. It’s and! The article “Ending the Reading Wars: Reading Acquisition From Novice to Expert” by Anne Castles, Kathleen Rastle, and Kate Nation provides important research data and practical examples of explicit and sequential ways to ensure students build orthographic knowledge. They help make it all classroom-friendly and practical, which benefits students, educators, and families alike. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.

This episode focuses on cracking the alphabetic code in part two of studying the article Ending the Reading Wars: Reading Acquisition From Novice to Expert by Anne Castles, Kathleen Rastle, and Kate Nation. The discussion emphasizes the significance of spoken language comprehension for young learners and the crucial role of engaging students in the writing system in connecting spoken and written language. Debunking myths about phonics and highlighting the years of practice and instruction needed for reading proficiency, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide where research meets classroom practice. Let’s explore this crucial intersection together in Literacy Talks. Download the Reading Horizons Discovery Product Guide. Access past show notes. Read the transcripts.