Reading Teachers Lounge

Shannon and Mary talk with guests Louise Hewitt and Meghan Hicks from The Sentence Studio about sentence structure.   They discuss why many students who can decode still struggle with comprehension and writing because of sentence-level syntax challenges.    Their approach uses “bubble maps” and a routine of sequenced questions to help students identify the subject–predicate “kernel” and understand how sentences are expanded with where/when/why/how details.   This discussion shows how grammar, vocabulary, morphology, and comprehension intersect in students' reading and writing.   Listeners will walk away with a fresh perspective and ideas for developing students' syntactic knowledge and awareness.  * Note: these times differ slightly in the AD FREE episode.  01:19 Meet Louise and Meghan04:14 What Syntax Really Means09:00 Bubble Map Breakthrough11:41 Why Grammar Programs Fail15:49 Syntax and Comprehension17:44 Complex Sentence Examples21:11 Misconceptions About Reading23:06 SLPs and Language Clues28:36 Tools and Teaching Routine33:31 Function Over Form35:16 Morphology Meets Syntax51:35 Grammar for Multilingual Learners53:51 Sentence Work Beats Worksheets01:12:03 Teach Function Not Labels01:15:27 Student Insights and Misconceptions01:22:06 Assessment Built Into Mapping01:23:17 Raise Rigor With Scaffolds01:24:07 Wrap Up and Next TimeRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Science of the Sentence websiteSentence Composing for Elementary School by Don and Jenny Killgallon *Amazon affiliate linkMassachusetts DOE Syntax resourcesBubble Map ChallengesThe Sentence StudioScience of the Sentence on YouTubeScience of the Sentence on FacebookSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Shannon and Mary meet up to start Season 9 of the podcast.  They catch up on their summer activities and share their busy back-to-school schedules. They discuss their favorite games and instructional methods from their tutoring practices and review professional learning opportunities they're currently taking.     00:00 Season Catch Up00:54 Escaping Overscheduling02:17 Middle School Rhythm03:40 Home Study Systems04:22 Resetting With New Students05:52 Structured Literacy Routines06:54 Automaticity And Handwriting11:44 Spell It Out Strategy15:35 Executive Functioning Course18:08 Summer Recap And Trips19:04 Sentence Composing Tools21:45 Color Coding Grammar22:24 Weaning Off Supports22:55 Word Origins Arrives23:34 First Morphology Lesson25:02 Scripted Yet Flexible25:55 Morphology With Younger Kids26:26 Program Pacing Tips27:45 Building Teacher Confidence29:07 Levels And Rollout Plan29:46 Gamifying With SquishyLAND31:07 New Game Tweezer32:51 Executive Function Skills35:13 Balance Health And Finch36:44 CERI Class Progress37:27 Favorite Free Resources39:07 Season Wrap And TeasersRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Spelling Out OrthographyCox Campus Structured Literacy CourseExecutive Functioning trainings from Sarah WardBubble map (Science of the Science)Word OriginsSquishyLand *Amazon affiliate linkTweezer gameFinch self-care appReading UniverseSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Shannon and Mary record their Season 8 finale, catching up on what they've been doing during the school year.    They've both been busy with balancing personal and professional responsibilities, with work hours increasing for Shannon in tutoring and for Mary in advocacy work and supporting parents in IEP meetings.   In their tutoring practices, they're both advancing beyond decoding work with many of their students, and during the discussion, they both realized they had adopted sentence-composing activities, inspired by 8.8's guest, Sara Lee.   During the discussion, they detail how their students use literature-based model sentences and scaffolded imitation to build sentence skills, comprehension, and vocabulary.   Shannon describes how she adds language support using English Linking Blocks and word lists.   The discussion then highlights their excitement about UFLI's upcoming structured morphology curriculum, Word Origins (adapted from Australia).   In the episode chat, they also touch on the AMIRA screener, Mary's recent SWI professional learning through Word Torque, and how they're both supporting students' math knowledge and skills in their tutoring.   Listen in to catch up with these reading teachers and find out how their literacy instruction continues to evolve.00:38 Life as Busy Parents02:30 Tutoring and Advocacy Load04:29 Discovering Sentence Composing07:37 Harry Potter Hook09:17 Linking Blocks Breakthrough13:18 From Sentences to Writing19:43 Structured Morphology Word Origins22:58 Structured Morphology Wins23:48 Curriculum Fidelity First27:06 Word Origins Details28:41 Australia Connections31:17 Getting It Into Schools32:15 Georgia Reading Screening37:59 Math Fluency Intervention40:22 Subitizing And Word Problems47:12 Wrap Up Season NotesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:UFLI Word Origins news updates formUFLI Word Origins InformationHands-On English Linking BlocksWord Torque websiteWord Inquiry In ActionReviews of Curriculum - The Reading LeagueGA Dyslexia Handbook related to updated laws for HS 307Math Their WayAubree Teaches - conceptual, visual math Aubree Teaches - store (this is not an affiliated link)Support the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Shannon and Mary welcome Dr. Ellen Ballock and Julia D'Onofrio from Gordon College to talk about teacher preparation programs. Discover how they design and implement teacher prep programs focused on literacy instruction, the science of reading, and practical teaching methods. Our guests shed light on the importance of comprehensive training, common misconceptions in literacy education, and the roles of explicit instruction and evidence-based practices. They also delve into how their curriculum bridges gaps in teacher knowledge, ensuring future educators are well-equipped to foster student success.   This episode will likely remind you of your own teacher training and inspire you, making you feel hopeful about the future of our field and for new teacher candidates.01:16 Meet Today’s Guests05:10 Teacher Prep Shifts Nationwide10:54 Data Language and Decision Making14:36 Unlearning Balanced Literacy18:06 Teaching Phonemic Awareness to Adults22:06 Modeling Explicit Instruction25:39 Morphology and Word Study29:49 Curriculum Partnerships and Fidelity32:01 Adapting Curriculum with Scaffolds35:50 Redesigning for Comprehension38:13 Gateway Checks for Think Alouds40:39 Coaching Struggling Candidates43:53 Writing Methods and Sentence Work48:22 Sentence Composing Mentor Models52:11 Practicum Pathway and Feedback01:03:04 Doctoral Program for Change Agents01:07:19 Closing Thanks and TakeawaysRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Gordon CollegeSentence Composing (Don Killgallon)Grammar for Middle School: A Sentence Composing Approach by Don and Jenny Killgallon *Amazon affiliate linkNCTQEarly literacy observation tool (Massachusetts)Moat's Survey of Teacher KnowledgeHow Spelling Supports Reading  article by Louisa MoatsGordon College's Science of Learning Doctoral ProgramSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

In this episode of the Reading Teacher's Lounge, hosts Mary and Shannon welcome expert Sara Lee to discuss best practices for teaching grammar and syntax. They dive into how understanding sentence structure, grammatical functions, and modifiers can elevate both reading comprehension and writing skills for students of all ages. Sara emphasizes the importance of embedding grammar instruction within reading and writing activities, and provides practical strategies for making grammar engaging and relevant. Specific strategies, such as focusing on sentence nuclei, harnessing descriptive modifiers, and being mindful of students' language acquisition backgrounds, are discussed. Additionally, Sara emphasizes the importance of providing meaningful practice opportunities and underscores the value of understanding grammar as the structure of language. The episode is rich with actionable insights and resources to help teachers better support their students.NOTE FROM GUEST:Re: our discussion about adverbs at minute 33 in the episode, I want to make sure listeners understand that the word "so" can also modify adverbs (as adverbs can modify other adverbs), rather than thinking that adverbs can only modify adjectives.01:38 Introducing Our Special Guest: Sara Lee02:31 Diving into Grammar and Syntax05:33 Understanding Grammatical Functions07:55 Challenges and Resources for Teaching Grammar10:04 Practical Applications and Student Engagement12:41 The Importance of Sentence Structure25:05 Using AI to Enhance Grammar Lessons32:23 Supporting Multi-Language Learners35:22 Challenges in Teaching Writing36:38 Tips for Enhancing Writing Skills39:34 Using Sentence Nucleus for Creativity41:28 Grammar in Reading and Writing Instruction44:30 Engaging Students in Grammar48:41 Resources for Teaching Grammar01:02:02 Making Grammar Fun and Approachable01:03:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:The Literacy DoctorSentence Composing (Don Killgallon)Grammar for Middle School: A Sentence Composing Approach by Don and Jenny Killgallon *Amazon affiliate linkThe Death of Practice (Sara's blog post)GrammarismLinguistics GirlWord HippoVideo from Dr. Bowers and Marie Foley (Nested Combinatorial Structure)Timothy Shanahan's blog post:   Comprehension Instruction that Really Helps-Teaching CohesionEvan Moor Daily Paragraph Editing book *Amazon affiliate linkSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

In this episode, we explore effective practices for supporting students with homework. Join us as we discuss strategies to foster a productive & stress-free homework environment. We cover the importance of EF, the advantages and challenges of traditional homework, & how to address post-COVID implications. Also, we share insights on balancing homework with students' SEL, creative engagement techniques, & practical communication tips for accommodations.01:14 Supporting Learners at Home02:20 The Role of Executive Functioning in Homework05:27 Creative Homework Approaches09:01 Simplifying Homework for Better Engagement10:32 Flexible and Individualized Homework Strategies19:24 Creating a Productive Homework Environment25:28 Understanding Executive Functioning in Children26:07 Dealing with Meltdowns and Connection Issues27:37 Empathy and Minimal Help Strategies28:07 Middle School Homework Challenges29:28 Reaching Out to Teachers for Support29:58 Effective Homework Breaks and Routines36:55 Positive Feedback and Encouragement43:52 The Role of Parents in Homework Success44:22 Reading Logs and Encouraging Curiosity46:59 Research on Homework Benefits48:18 Conclusion and ResourcesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Reading Rockets: What the Research Says About the Value of HomeworkUnderstood.org Homework Challenges & Strategies11 Tips for Helping Your Child Manage HomeworkWhy Nov. is Hard For Students and 7 Ways Parents Can HelpInfographic: How Does Homework Actually Affect Students?Stanford Research Shows Pitfalls of HomeworkCopy of Mary's  EmailScripts to Use When Requesting Support Effective Practices for Homework5 Homework Strategies for Working with Students with Learning Disabilities Tips for Parents Timer * affiliateSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Shannon and Mary revisit the topic of Structured Word Inquiry (SWI) and discuss the importance of understanding the deliberate reasons for English spellings with guests Jennifer Petrich and Bradley Johnson.The conversation follows the hosts' and guests' experiences with SWI, detailing how it helps students understand and apply the structure of English spelling with its focus on word structures, etymology, and morphology. Emphasizing a shift from a phonics-only approach to one that also prioritizes morphology & etymology, the episode highlights the importance of starting with word meaning and developing scientific inquiry skills in literacy teaching. The journey into SWI is one of discovery, collaboration, & continuous learning. With the tools and strategies shared, educators can confidently embark on this path, helping their students gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry that is the English language. Join the conversation and dive into the world of SWI. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or a lifelong learner, there’s always more to uncover in the fascinating study of words.01:01 Welcome to the RTL01:44 Introduction to SWI03:11 Meet the Guests: Jennifer Petrich and Bradley Johnson04:25 Jennifer's Journey with Dyslexia and SWI07:10 Bradley's Path to SWI12:14 Explaining SWI to Teachers21:59 Importance of Meaning & Morphology34:25 Importance of Lifelong Learning35:01 Introducing SWI35:34 Overcoming the Fear of Not Knowing36:12 Utilizing Curricular Modules and Materials37:26 Inquiry-Based Learning in the Classroom38:26 Developing Content Knowledge and Pedagogical Skills40:33 The Role of Big Ideas in Teaching42:43 Practical Applications and Teacher Experiences43:18 Scientific Inquiry in Word Study44:09 Integrating Phonics & Morphology54:17 The Importance of Community & Collaboration59:02 Final Thoughts & ResourcesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:The Literacy Doctor websiteOne Step Now EducationDyslexia Training InstitutePete Bowers's websiteOur Season 7 episode with Dr. Peter Bowers about SWIThe High Frequency Word Project book by Rebecca Loveless & Fiona Hamilton *Amazon affiliate linkThe Literacy Doctor weekly drop-ins (on Wed. )Investigating English Spelling by Bradley Johnson and Jennifer Petrich *Amazon affiliate linkStructured Word Inquiry in the Classroom (FB group)Marie Foley's courseSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Mary and Shannon are joined by Lindsay Kemeny, a returning guest and 1st grade teacher. Lindsay discusses her latest book and shares insights into structuring an effective literacy block. During the chat, Lindsay stresses the importance of routines, transitions, and frequent student responses in her data-driven instruction.  Lindsay also opens up about her personal journey, detailing how her son's struggles with dyslexia transformed her teaching methods. The conversation covers practical tips for teaching phonics, spelling, high-frequency words, and integrating content into literacy.  Listen to the episode to learn valuable tips for optimizing your reading instruction.01:17 Welcoming Back Lindsay Kemeny01:49 Lindsay's Journey and New Books03:36 Implementing Literacy Block Changes07:04 Structuring the Literacy Block08:53 The Importance of Data and Intervention21:09 Green Chef Sponsorship22:07 Phonics and Spelling Integration28:20 Reflecting on Classroom Data28:39 Optimizing Lessons and Routines35:06 The Importance of Student Responses37:08 Focusing on Progress, Not Perfection39:55 A Personal Journey with Dyslexia52:36 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Our Season 6 episode with Lindsay: Best Reading Instruction MovesOur Season 7 episode:  The Reading TeamLindsay's websiteLindsay's podcast: Literacy TalksRock Your Literacy Block by Lindsay Kemeny *Amazon affiliate link7 Mighty Moves by Lindsay Kemeny *Amazon affiliate link7 Mighty Moves Reading Resources (companion book) by Lindsay Kemeny *Amazon affiliate linkReading Rockets: An Example of the 90 Minute Reading BlockAscend (Smarter Intervention):   How Do I Fit It All In?   Reading Rockets:  What Does Your Literacy Block Look Like?  It Depends.Timothy Shanahan:   How Would You Schedule the Reading Instruction?Mississippi Dept of Ed:    Suggested Instructional Routines for Teaching Reading First Through Fifth GradeSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

Educator and author Erin Waters joins Shannon and Mary to discuss supporting the whole child through Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Erin shares her teaching journey and highlights the crucial connection between SEL & literacy development—because our students aren’t just learning to read; they’re learning who they are. They explore what SEL looks like in real classrooms: morning meetings that build community, read-alouds that spark emotional awareness, and simple coping strategies that help students manage anxiety and stress. The discussion also acknowledges the lasting impact of the digital age and the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ social-emotional well-being, as more children than ever are navigating big feelings.Erin introduces her book Wally Is Worried as a relatable resource for helping children understand and express their emotions. Listeners will walk away with practical tools, recommended texts, and encouragement to make SEL an intentional part of everyday literacy instruction.01:40 Special Guest: Erin Waters on SEL03:06 Defining SEL and Its Importance06:03 Real-World SEL Classroom Experiences11:41 Impact of Digital Age on SEL16:18 Post-COVID SEL Challenges21:43 Coping Mechanisms and Solutions39:16 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Wally is Worried by Erin Waters  *Amazon affiliate linkOur engagement episodeOur technology episodeBook list with SEL topics, curated by Love Grows LearningBig Little Feelings blogNEA (National Education Association):  SEL ResourcesReading Rockets:  Classroom Strategies that Support SELReading with Relevance:   a CASEL-certified SEL supplemental programCASEL.orgCentervention:   95 Social Emotional Learning ActivitiesIntegrating SEL Into Your Reading Block Children's Institute:   SEL Resources and ToolsErin Waters' websiteConnect with Erin via IGSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link

In this episode, you're getting a preview of the types of conversations happening with educators in our bonus subscription episodes.   This month, Shannon and Mary chat with Dr. Jasmine Rogers, a reading specialist and college educator, about her dual roles in literacy.   Dr. Rogers discusses her research on African American English (AAE) and structured literacy, emphasizing the importance of affirming behaviors in promoting student motivation and effective communication. Drawing on personal experiences and professional expertise, she emphasizes the importance of affirming diverse dialects, including Black English, and fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. The episode also covers translanguaging and strategies for teachers to support multilingual students, highlighting the significance of creating a positive, inclusive, and affirming classroom environment.  Tune in to learn more about effective teaching practices, the science of reading, and how teachers can better support students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.0:00 Welcome to the Reading Teacher Lounge01:09 Introducing Dr. Jasmine Rogers02:37 Understanding Black Language in Education04:34 Research on Affirming Student Language07:32 The Importance of Cultural Awareness in Teaching13:55 Personal Experiences and Reflections15:48 Journey into Structured Literacy17:37 Merging Identity with Teaching Practices22:14 Reflecting on Teaching Practices23:03 The Power of Translanguaging24:57 Effective Communication Techniques26:55 Building Positive Classroom Environments30:04 Supporting Teachers and Students31:29 The Importance of Authenticity in Teaching32:59 Insights from Research36:12 Morphology and Language Learning39:50 Final Thoughts and FarewellsRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEDr. Jasmine's websiteConnect with Dr. Jasmine Rogers through her websiteConnect with Dr. Jasmine Rogers through LinkedIn44 Phonemes Video from RRFTS (Rollins Center for Language and Literacy)DC Public Schools Reading ClinicFrayer ModelStrive for Five Conversations by Tricia Zucker and Sonia Cabell *Amazon affiliate linkEducation Week:  What is Translanguaging and How Is it Used in the Classroom?Buy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box with our linkBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonFree Rubrics Guide created by usFinding Good Books Guide created by usSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link