TRT Podcast#38: What the science of reading is based on There are a lot of questions about what the science of reading truly is. Is it from a journalist? Is the science brand-new? How do we know that we can trust it? In today's episode I'll share the particulars! Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Link to original Facebook Live presentation Video presentation Check out the full science of ... Read More
How the brain learns to read
TRT Podcast#37: A simple look at how the brain learns to read How exactly does the brain learn to read ... and why should teachers even care? In today's episode I simplify the science and share exactly why this understanding is important for K-2 teachers. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Recommended reading Language at the Speed of Sight, by Mark Seidenberg Overcoming Dyslexia, by Sally ... Read More
My reaction to Emily Hanford’s article, “At a Loss for Words”
TRT Podcast#36: My reaction to the article that reignited the reading wars When I first read Emily Hanford's article, "At a Loss for Words," I felt annoyed, angry and - in the end - dismissive. I've read the article many times since, and now my reaction is quite the opposite. Listen to find out what's changed! Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript The article that reignited the reading wars At a ... Read More
What are the reading wars?
TRT Podcast#35: What are the reading wars? As we begin our discussion about the science of reading, we need to look back at the history of teaching reading in the United States. What exactly are the reading wars, and when did they begin? Where are we today? Join us for a brief and lively history of the debate. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Books mentioned in the episode Why Johnny Can't ... Read More
Free decodable passages for short a CVC words
So. These days I've been doing a lot of research into how our brains learn to read. In doing that, I've made a shift in how approach beginning reading. I used to ascribe to the three-cueing-systems model. It's the idea that kids solve unfamiliar words by using three cues: what looks right (phonics), what sounds right (syntax) and what makes sense (semantics). Here's the problem with the three-cueing ... Read More
Introduction to the science of reading podcast series
TRT Podcast#34: Introducing our science of reading podcast series I've been pouring over the science of reading research, and I'm making shifts in how I approach teaching reading. You're invited to join me on this exciting journey! Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Link to original Facebook Live presentation Video presentation Check out the full science of reading bootcamp Introduction to ... Read More
Books about black history
Today I'm sharing a huge list of our favorite black history books for kids! Black history books for kids We have many of Adler's books, and even my preschoolers enjoy them - despite their length. If you like this book, you'll also like other titles by Adler: A Picture Book of Rosa Parks, A Picture Book of Frederick Douglass, A ... Read More
Favorite science of reading authors
TRT Podcast #31: Favorite science of reading authors Have you ever bought a book about teaching reading - only to find out that it doesn't align with what you know to be true based on the science? Here are some authors you can trust! Listen to the episode here Science of reading authors David Kilpatrick Equipped for Reading Success Essentials of Assessing, Preventing and Overcoming Reading ... Read More
Answers to decodable book FAQ’s
TRT Podcast #29: Answers to decodable book FAQ's Why should we use decodable books? Who should be reading them? For how long? Get answers to these questions and more in today's episode! Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Related links Free fiction decodable books Free nonfiction decodable books Ultimate guide to decodable book series ... Read More
Christmas problem solving activity
I have a problem. I'm a clip art addict. Sometimes I buy clip art without any idea what I'm going to create ... because it's Just. So. Perfect. That's how I felt about this Christmas sweater clip art. How could I resist? Thankfully, I thought of the perfect use for these adorable sweaters ... problem solving! I created a set of task cards. Each card has a set of clues to help kids determine the ... Read More









