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!

Shannon 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.

Mary 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?!