Are you familiar with the FCRR? They have done incredible work making free effective research-based literacy activities. The centers include directions for teachers and all the necessary materials. They are mostly print-and-go activities requiring minimal teacher prep!
Read MoreShannon and Mary speak with consultant and literacy specialist Alison from Learning at the Primary Pond all about spelling tests and best practices in phonics instruction.
Read MoreShannon and Mary discuss another pillar in the Balanced Literacy Series: Shared Reading. Shared reading is interactive reading with teacher-guided support. This is essential for helping struggling readers build their fluency and expression as well as explicitly modeling how proficient readers approach the text. It can be done in whole groups, small groups, or with individualized instruction. Sometimes you will see shared reading experiences modeled with big books or books that are projected for the whole class to share.
Read MoreShannon and Mary discuss the recent discussions in the news and educational circles related to the reading wars. Additionally, based on listener questions we recommend some resources for teachers who want to implement more structured literacy into their classroom practices.
Read MoreMary describes the differences between Balanced Literacy vs. Structured Literacy. There have been a lot of comments and editorials in the last few weeks about the “phonics folks” from some prominent figures in the literacy world. Let’s break it down without any name-calling over here. We recommend structured, explicit, strong phonics-based approach to reading - just don’t throw the baby out with the bath water?!
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