S5E3: Outsmart Your Brain - Expert Tips for Learning with Dr. Daniel Willingham

In the Season 5 finale of Reading Road Trip, Kate welcomes Dr. Zach Groshell, teacher, researcher, and author of Just Tell Them, for a practical, energizing conversation about explicit instruction. They unpack why novices need structured teaching, how classroom setup and routines support attention, and the power of techniques like choral response, turn‑and‑talk, and well‑chosen examples. It’s a clear, actionable episode for anyone committed to evidence‑aligned instruction and stronger learning outcomes. Resources Mentioned in This Episode An Indian Residential School Story — Written and illustrated by Joanne Robertson with Shirley Fletcher Horn Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching — Dr. Zach Groshell Progressively Incorrect Podcast — Hosted by Dr. Zach Groshell ER Education — Dr. Groshell’s research‑aligned professional learning consultancy

In this episode of Reading Road Trip, Kate welcomes Dr. Jon Potter, an expert in MTSS, literacy intervention, and data-based decision making, for an insightful conversation about the Taxonomy of Intervention Intensity. They explore seven evidence-based dimensions educators can use to intensify reading interventions, including strength, dosage, alignment, attention to transfer, and behavioral support. Dr. Potter shares practical examples and actionable guidance for using assessment and progress-monitoring data to make informed instructional decisions, helping educators intensify support in ways that truly meet students' needs. Whether you're a classroom teacher, interventionist, or school leader, this episode offers valuable tools for supporting struggling readers and improving literacy outcomes for all students. Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Touch of the Frog by Joseph Dandurand, illustrated by Eleanor Atkins National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCII) Taxonomy of Intervention Intensity (NCII) Data-Based Individualization (DBI) Center on Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS Center) Untangling Data-Based Decision Making: A Problem-Solving Model to Enhance MTSS, co-authored by Jason Harlacher, Jon Potter, and Adam Collins Free Reproducibles and Resources for Untangling Data-Based Decision Making Original Article: "The Taxonomy of Intervention Intensity" - Foundational article by Lynn Fuchs, Douglas Fuchs, and Amelia Malone describing the framework discussed throughout the episode.

Kate is joined by literacy leaders and longtime collaborators Nellie Caruso and Leigh Fettes for a conversation packed with practical classroom ideas, evidence-based literacy strategies, and reflections on the current state of literacy education. From phonics and vocabulary instruction to data-driven decision making, French immersion, and system-level change, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for educators at every stage of their literacy journey. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Cedar Mother by Brett D. Hewson illustrated by Natasha Donovan Literacy & Learning Conference by IDA Ontario featuring Dr. Louisa Moats in April 2027! ONlit Son-au-graphe Acadience PELI The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading by Christopher Such Shifting the Balance, Grades 3-5 by Katie Cunningham, Jan Burkins & Kari Yates Explicit Instruction: Effective and Efficient Teaching by Anita Archer & Charles Hughes Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching by Zach Groshell Teaching Reading Sourcebook (3rd Edition) by Bill Honig, Linda Diamond, Linda Gutlohn, et al. Effective Universal Instruction by Gibbons, Brown & Neebling The Reading League Journal IDA Perspectives on Language and Literacy

In this episode, Kate welcomes Melissa Flynn, Executive Director of the First Nations School Board (FNSB) in the Yukon, and literacy coach Kayla Abrams to discuss how authentic relationships, community partnership, and evidence-based literacy instruction are driving meaningful change for learners. Melissa and Kayla share FNSB’s journey from balanced literacy to structured literacy, the importance of screening and assessment data, transparent communication with families, and the ways local cultures, languages, and communities are reflected in literacy learning. They also highlight encouraging signs of progress, including improved attendance, stronger reading outcomes, and growing learner confidence and engagement. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Just a Walk by Jordan Wheeler, illustrated by Christopher Auchter First Nations School Board (FNSB), Yukon UFLI Foundations (University of Florida Literacy Institute)  UFLI Toolbox - Free lesson resources, decodable passages, slide decks, and implementation supports. IDA Ontario's Literacy and Learning Educator Conference (LitLearn) Annual conference featuring evidence-based literacy research and practice. ONlit Free bilingual literacy resource hub created in partnership with Dyslexia Canada, IDA Ontario, and the Ontario Ministry of Education. Reading Assessment Done Right by Kate Winn & Dr. Stephanie Stollar Science of Reading with Nathaniel Swain Referenced as a source of learning and professional knowledge around evidence-based literacy instruction.

What role does oral language play in learning to read and in learning, period? In this episode of Reading Road Trip, Kate Winn welcomes Dr. Charles Hulme. Dr. Hulme explains why oral language is far more than a contributor to reading comprehension. Drawing on decades of research, he describes how children's early language skills provide the foundation for phonological awareness, decoding, and later literacy success. He also discusses the critical role language plays as the "medium of instruction" across all areas of education. Listeners will learn about practical ways educators can assess and support oral language development, the importance of rich conversations and structured language instruction, and the connections between oral language difficulties and dyslexia. Dr. Hulme also shares insights from his research on effective language interventions and why their benefits can last for years. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Storyteller Skye: Teachings from My Ojibway Grandfather by Lindsay Christina King, illustrated by Carolyn Frank OxEd & Assessment (Dr. Hulme's company) LanguageScreen (oral language assessment tool discussed by Dr. Hulme) An evidence-based oral language screener for children ages 3.5–11 that assesses expressive vocabulary, receptive vocabulary, listening comprehension, and sentence repetition. Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) Dr. Hulme referenced the structured oral language intervention programs he and colleagues have developed; NELI is one of the best-known early language interventions emerging from this work. Charles Hulme – Google Scholar Book Display at Perth & District Union Public Library - Thank you Susan!

What happens when a district stops asking “Who needs intervention?” and starts asking “What needs to change in Tier 1 instruction?” In this episode, Kate welcomes Signe Williams, Sarah Carr, Shyanne McWilliams, and Tracy Davis from Anglophone School District West in New Brunswick to share the remarkable story of their work at Cuffman Street Elementary School. Together, they discuss how universal screening data, collaborative data teams, instructional coaching, and evidence-based literacy practices helped strengthen core classroom instruction and accelerate student growth. The conversation explores the power of a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), the importance of focusing on foundational skills in Kindergarten and Grade 1, and how strong Tier 1 instruction can both lift students at risk and challenge those who are already thriving. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Jenny's Concrete Powwow by Shawna Lee Corbould, illustrated by Regina Alice Wilman Reading Assessment Done Right: Tools and Techniques for Data-Driven Instruction by Stephanie Stollar & Kate Winn (Additional Reading Road Trip Listening S4 Bonus Episode) MTSS for Reading Improvement: A Leader's Tool Kit for Schoolwide Success by Sarah Brown & Stephanie Stollar Acadience Learning  DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) Quick Phonics Screener (QPS)

In this episode of Reading Road Trip, Kate welcomes Dr. Todd Cunningham for a thoughtful conversation about dyslexia from both a professional and personal perspective. Todd shares his own experiences growing up with dyslexia before discussing what research tells us about dyslexia today, including early identification, intervention, common misconceptions, accommodations, and the importance of evidence-based instruction. They explore the impact dyslexia can have on students' academic self-concept, mental health, and family life, while offering practical advice for parents and educators who want to better support learners with dyslexia. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Corn Chief by Karen Whetung, with photography by Lindsay Delaronde Bright Lights Psychology Clinic Dr. Cunningham's clinic, providing psychoeducational assessments, intervention, and mental health support for children and youth. Learn Different Professional learning organization founded by Dr. Cunningham that provides educator training and resources grounded in evidence-based practice and the science of learning. Ontario Human Rights Commission's Right to Read Inquiry Report Referenced in the discussion about system change, screening, and evidence-based reading instruction. International Dyslexia Association Ontario (IDA Ontario) Resources, advocacy, and professional learning related to dyslexia and evidence-based literacy instruction. Lifting The Curtain on EQAO Scores by IDA Ontario Other Dyslexia Support:  Dyslexia Canada Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario  New Definition of Dyslexia

Kate Winn is joined by cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Daniel Willingham to discuss Outsmart Your Brain and the science of learning. From reading comprehension and background knowledge to note-taking, studying, procrastination, sleep, test anxiety, and focus, this episode is packed with practical tips for educators, parents, students, and lifelong learners. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Minnow (Graphic Novel) by Willie Poll, illustrated by Emily Graceanna Pearson Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning Is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy by Dr. Daniel Willingham Why Don’t Students Like School? by Dr. Daniel Willingham Articles Referenced: “The Usefulness of Brief Instruction in Reading Comprehension Strategies” by Dr. Daniel Willingham Dr. Willingham’s website, www.danielwillingham.com, where articles, videos, blog posts, and many copyright-owned resources are freely available

In this episode of Reading Road Trip, Kate Winn is joined by Dr. Julia Lindsey to debunk common myths about small-group reading instruction. From ditching leveled texts to using data for flexible, targeted groups, this conversation highlights how small groups can be a powerful, efficient tool to support student learning, without adding hours of prep. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources mentioned in the episode: The Trees Talk by Jennifer Scott, illustrated by Carla Joseph Small Groups, Big Results by Dr. Julia Lindsey Reading Above the Fray by Dr. Julia Lindsey Alphabet Embedded Mnemonics from ONlit.org Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) Student Center Activities Beyond Decodables Text Series (created by Dr. Julia Lindsey)

Handwriting isn’t just about tidy letters on a page, it’s a powerful bridge to reading, spelling, and early literacy. In this episode, Kate sits down with Dr. Shawn Datchuk to unpack the science behind handwriting instruction, the three processes every child needs to master, and five research‑aligned practices teachers can use right away. From tracing to scaffolding to memory retrieval, this conversation brings clarity and practical strategies for the classroom. Our work at IDA Ontario, which is a registered charity, depends on the generosity of people like you. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider supporting our organization. Resources Mentioned I Am Not a Costume — Maria DesJarlais, illustrated by Regina Alice Willman Dr. Shawn Datchuk can be found at https://www.shawndatchuk.com/ along with the free, evidence-based resources to teach print (LIFTER) and cursive (CLIFTER) Handwriting: The ABCs of Explicit Instruction and Assessment By Dr. Shawn Datchuk — OnLit hosts a webinar where Dr. Datchuk breaks down the research behind handwriting instruction, including orthographic coding, motor skills, and explicit teaching routines. A practical, teacher‑friendly resource for anyone implementing evidence‑based handwriting practices. Ray et al. (2022) Systematic Review on Handwriting Instruction A research review examining handwriting instruction in kindergarten. The authors found that explicit handwriting instruction improves letter formation and boosts early literacy skills such as letter names, letter sounds, and early word reading—highlighting handwriting’s strong connection to reading development. Explicit Instruction Framework — Anita Archer & Charles Hughes A foundational model for structured teaching that emphasizes clear, consistent, and concise instruction. Their work guides teachers in modeling, guided practice, and gradual release—principles that apply directly to handwriting instruction. Steve Graham & Karen Harris — Writing and Handwriting Research. Graham and Harris are leading scholars in writing development. Their studies show that short, explicit handwriting lessons (2–3 times per week, 15 minutes each) can significantly improve handwriting fluency and overall writing performance. Their broader work underpins much of today’s evidence‑based writing instruction. Iowa Reading Research Center A research and outreach center focused on improving literacy outcomes through evidence‑based practices. Dr. Datchuk previously served as Director, and the center’s work informs many of the instructional approaches discussed in the episode. Council for Exceptional Children — Division for Learning Disabilities A professional organization dedicated to supporting learners with disabilities. Dr. Datchuk serves as Chair of its Research Committee, and the division’s work emphasizes high‑quality, research‑aligned instruction for diverse learners.