• Science of Reading

    Wondering Why Vocabulary Is Important? Here’s What Science Tells Us

    why vocabulary is important

    You know when you’re reading aloud to your class, and you hit a word that makes half your students scrunch up their faces in confusion? We’ve all been there! I was working with a teacher who had this exact experience with the word “crampon” during a mountain climbing story. Some kids lit up (thanks, family hiking trips!), while others were totally lost. It’s moments like these that really drive home why vocabulary is important in ways we might not always think about.

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  • Science of Reading

    Why Phonics is Important: A Teacher’s Guide to Better Reading Instruction

    Why Phonics Is Important?

    During a grade-level meeting, Jessica shared her struggles with teaching reading. “I feel like I’m failing them,” she whispered, eyes fixed on her lesson plans. “Especially Tommy – he knows his letters, he’s eager to learn, but he just keeps guessing at words.” I saw heads nodding around the room because we’ve all been there. Let’s explore why phonics is important and how it can transform your reading instruction.

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  • Science of Reading

    So, What Is Phonemic Awareness: Your Guide to Understanding This Essential Reading Skill

    what is phonemic awareness

    You know that moment when you’re sitting with a young reader, and they’re staring at the word “cat” like it’s written in hieroglyphics? Or when a student confidently recites the alphabet but draws a complete blank when you ask them about the first sound in “bike?” We’ve all been there, and it usually comes down to one key skill: phonemic awareness. If you’re wondering what is phonemic awareness and why it matters so much, you’re in the right place.

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  • Science of Reading

    The National Reading Panel: What It Is and Why It Still Matters

    National Reading Panel

    “What exactly is the National Reading Panel Report, and why does everyone keep talking about it?” This is a question I wish someone had asked me earlier in my teaching career. Instead, I spent years nodding along whenever the National Reading Panel was mentioned in curriculum meetings or professional development sessions, pretending I knew exactly what people were referencing. Maybe you’ve been there too?

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  • Science of Reading

    So, What IS the Science of Reading? What Every Teacher Needs to Know

    what is the science of reading

    “We’re implementing the Science of Reading next year!” If you’ve heard this announcement in a staff meeting and thought, “What is the Science of Reading and what exactly does that mean for my classroom?” – I want you to know you’re not alone. As a literacy coach who’s worked with hundreds of teachers navigating this exact journey, I’ve seen that mix of curiosity, hope, and let’s be honest, a touch of anxiety.

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