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How Explicit Writing Instruction Can Compensate for Gaps in Background Knowledge

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Content provided by Voyager Sopris Learning. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Voyager Sopris Learning or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Writing is potentially the most powerful lever we have for building knowledge and improving reading comprehension. It can uncover gaps in background knowledge that prevent students from accessing grade-level material. And, because writing helps new information stick, it can also boost students’ academic performance.

But writing is the most difficult thing we ask students to do. If inexperienced writers are asked to write at length, they can easily become overwhelmed as they juggle everything from spelling to word choice to organizing their thoughts. And if students are asked to write only about personal experience or topics in a separate writing curriculum, writing won’t help them acquire the knowledge they need to succeed in school.

Join this informative podcast as we talk with esteemed researcher and author Natalie Wexler. She will share ways to make writing less overwhelming by starting at the sentence level and how to include writing activities in the content of the core curriculum. This is an approach that shouldn’t be limited to English classes. It can have powerful effects in any subject—and at any grade level.

  continue reading

65 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 333538170 series 2561459
Content provided by Voyager Sopris Learning. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Voyager Sopris Learning or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Writing is potentially the most powerful lever we have for building knowledge and improving reading comprehension. It can uncover gaps in background knowledge that prevent students from accessing grade-level material. And, because writing helps new information stick, it can also boost students’ academic performance.

But writing is the most difficult thing we ask students to do. If inexperienced writers are asked to write at length, they can easily become overwhelmed as they juggle everything from spelling to word choice to organizing their thoughts. And if students are asked to write only about personal experience or topics in a separate writing curriculum, writing won’t help them acquire the knowledge they need to succeed in school.

Join this informative podcast as we talk with esteemed researcher and author Natalie Wexler. She will share ways to make writing less overwhelming by starting at the sentence level and how to include writing activities in the content of the core curriculum. This is an approach that shouldn’t be limited to English classes. It can have powerful effects in any subject—and at any grade level.

  continue reading

65 episodes

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Supporting older, novice readers requires more than just phonics or comprehension strategies—it demands a multicomponent intervention approach. Students need structured instruction in vocabulary, syntax, text processing, and writing when working with complex texts. But for this to be effective, intervention must be intentional, well-planned, and fully supported. During this episode, Dr. Mitchell Brookins, a nationally recognized literacy practitioner, shares insights from a middle school in New Orleans, where a multicomponent intervention transformed how students engaged with rigorous texts. He breaks down why successful intervention isn’t just about what happens in the classroom—it also requires: ✅ A Structured Framework —A clear instructional model that ensures students get explicit, systematic instruction in vocabulary, syntax, text processing, and writing. ✅ Intentional Text Selection —Choosing texts that are both rigorous and accessible, ensuring they build students’ literacy skills while maintaining engagement. ✅ A Strong Coaching System —Teachers need consistent guidance and professional learning to sustain and refine their instructional practices—intervention is too vital for teachers to navigate alone. If you’re working with older struggling readers, this episode will challenge conventional approaches to intervention and equip you with the tools to help students succeed with complex texts—no matter their starting point.…
 
Join us as we talk with Lindsay Kemeny, a parent, elementary school teacher, and author of, 7 Mighty Moves . In this inspiring and eye-opening discussion, Kemeny shares her journey into science-based reading after her son was diagnosed with dyslexia and depression. Kemeny will discuss the key changes she made in her classroom after taking a deep dive into effective literacy instruction. As this conversation explores the intricacies of effective reading instruction supported by comprehensive research, Kemeny shares evidence-based “moves” that will give you a road map to elevate your teaching practices. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, this conversation will help you build confidence in your reading instruction. We’ll explore: Research-backed methodologies for effective reading instruction Practical, evidence-based teaching moves Ways to develop confidence in reading instruction…
 
Join us for an enlightening episode of EDVIEW360 Realizing the Promise of Reading Science by Staying the Course , where we bring together two pivotal figures in literacy education, Dr. Reid Lyon and Dr. Louisa Moats. These nationally recognized literacy experts share their invaluable insights about teaching children to read, addressing the intricate balance between what we know and what we practice. They’ll offer their views on progress in the field, and what else needs to happen to ensure widespread implementation of informed teaching that will lead to lasting gains for all students. During this compelling conversation, Dr. Lyon and Dr. Moats reflect on the progress made in understanding the science of reading, the barriers that still exist in translating replicated scientific findings into practice, and the solutions required to overcome these barriers. They delve into the complexities of decision-making in education, emphasizing the need for informed, evidence-based practices. Despite significant advancements, they acknowledge the ongoing gap in teacher knowledge and training, calling for a clinical model that fosters mentorship, collaboration, and feedback based on the development and implementation of a common professional language. Listeners will gain an understanding of Dr. Lyon's “10 Maxims” of practice derived from research as well as the basis for Dr. Moats's “speech to print” approach to instruction. The discussion will also highlight successful programs and initiatives that are paving the way for a brighter future in literacy education. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about closing the gap between literacy research and practice. Tune in to be inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to advance literacy and give every child the confidence and right to read.…
 
Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation with DeJunne’ Clark Jackson, president of The Center for Literacy & Learning and a renowned literacy advocate. Clark Jackson will share strategies to break down barriers in delivering accessible instruction and interventions to students. She will delve into the complexities of dyslexia and other challenges that can impact a student’s journey in learning to read. Clark Jackson will inspire listeners to recognize and address biases within and beyond the classroom, fostering better outcomes for both educators and students. In this session, she connects the science of reading to dyslexia, explains the foundations of equitable instruction, and offers evidence-based strategies that can be implemented immediately to help every child overcome reading challenges and thrive. This conversation is a must for administrators and classroom teachers looking to make a difference. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from Clark Jackson as she shares: Cooperative strategies and accessible instruction for all The importance of the science of reading as the bedrock for dyslexia support Evidence-based practices that engage students and families…
 
For decades, researchers have emphasized the strong connection between reading and writing, both in theory and practice. Multiple studies demonstrate that writing improves comprehension. What has been less clear is what particular writing practices research supports as being effective at improving students’ reading. Our guest, respected researcher and author Dr. Steve Graham, will discuss the research he conducted (Graham and Hebert, 2010) that illustrates how writing, and the way it’s taught, improves students’ reading comprehension, and the strategies educators should apply to ensure literacy success. Join us for this lively conversation where you’ll learn from a true trailblazer when it comes to writing and how it impacts learning to read. Attendees will learn: How infrequent writing and lack of explicit writing instruction can negatively impact learning to read Why teachers of reading need to emphasize writing in the classroom in the earliest grades and across content areas Why writing is a critical skill, important in its own right; consistent writing time and instruction improves reading comprehension Why more classroom time is necessary for writing…
 
Writing is the most challenging literacy skill to teach and to learn. Teachers who understand the connection of the science of reading and the reciprocal impact of reading and writing are ready to meet the challenge of teaching this complex skill. Join us for this fascinating discussion about the symbiotic relationship between learning to read and writing. Our expert, a career educator and writing expert, will share how both reading and writing require systematic, explicit instruction that can and should be an integrated part of daily student life. All students can benefit from strategic reading and writing strategies that focus on the foundational writing skills from basic to complex sentence writing, an understanding of text structure, paragraph, multiparagraph, and essay writing. Let our expert tell you how! Our expert will share: The connection of writing to the science of reading, based on the Reading Rope How the research (by Graham & Herbert, 2011) illustrates how reading and writing support one another and how writing about reading leads to improvements in a student's reading ability Why systematic and explicit instruction is critical to build skilled writers How writing instruction supports all populations of students—general education, those with IEPs, English learners, gifted and talented, and emergent young scholars…
 
Join us for this fascinating and informative conversation with Dr. Patricia Vadasy, researcher and literacy expert, as we explore phonics instruction, and the research behind it. We will consider the critical nature of alphabet knowledge in teaching young learners how to read and spell words. Throughout her career, Dr. Vadasy has worked to develop effective approaches to early phonics instruction. More recently, she published her research about instructional details that enhance phonics instruction, and effective approaches and details of preschool alphabet instruction. Her school-based intervention research has been funded since 1998 with grants from the U. S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences. For classroom teachers and administrators who are determined to give early learners the best possible foundation to become successful readers, this conversation will give you the facts behind phonics instruction, the strategies, and impetus to move forward knowing your instruction is the best it can be. Dr. Vadasy will review and discuss: The National Reading Panel findings about effective features of phonics instruction, including explicit, systematic, and synthetic phonics instruction How the research informs effective phonics instruction, including applying taught letter-sound correspondences and application to beginning decoding Individual differences in learning these skills and where students struggle The benefits of practice in reading words in isolation and in sentence and story contexts Providing student support in the classroom and in supplemental instruction…
 
Dyslexia represents the most common and prevalent of all known learning disabilities and impacts approximately one in five individuals (National Institute of Health). A teacher who understands dyslexia can be the one person who saves a child from years of frustration and anxiety. In this engaging and informative podcast, literacy expert Barbara Steinberg will translate research into practice, providing teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to help students with dyslexia become confident and capable readers. Our conversation will cover: Myths and misconceptions about dyslexia Characteristics of dyslexia The power of early intervention Characteristics of effective intervention Accommodations that level the playing field…
 
Join this lively discussion with Dr. Amy Murdoch, founding director of the Mount St. Joseph Center for Reading Science, as we explore the need for the application of the science of reading with our youngest learners. Dr. Murdoch will share why and how educators should apply the principles of the science of reading in preschool and into kindergarten, and the critical nature of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in every grade and at every stage of learning. Dr. Murdoch’s commitment to helping pre-service educators move to the science of reading has been constant and admirable. Her work includes an open-source preschool curriculum and application of a grant to support preK–3 reading outcomes. Listen as we talk to the inspirational Dr. Murdoch about her work with young readers, future teachers of reading, and her experiences co-teaching a graduate course with Dr. Anita Archer. We’ll discuss: Examples of how MTSS can be implemented in preK–3 classrooms The application of the science of reading in preschool Building a SoR graduate and doctoral program that attracts students from across the country…
 
The large body of empirical research known as the science of reading can be leveraged to create effective intervention systems within the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS.) Join us for this informative, inspiring conversation with Dr. Stephanie Stollar, as she offers guidance about evaluating, selecting, and implementing intervention programs. As the new school year kicks off, you’ll find this conversation to be incredibly timely and helpful! Our discussion will include how to select reading interventions aligned with research and with students' needs. Key aspects of intervention implementation will be shared, including schedule, educator knowledge, and coaching. Finally, Dr. Stollar will share ways to use adult implementation data and student outcome data to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions. Listeners will learn: How to select reading interventions aligned to research and matched to student needs How to implement reading interventions for maximum results How to evaluate the effectiveness of reading interventions What to look for in an effective intervention program When intervention is needed and for how long Featured Download Guidance for Selecting, Implementing, and Evaluating Reading Interventions…
 
Are you interested in learning how you can create a system that supports reading instruction and intervention in your school or district to ensure every student has the best chance at literacy success? This discussion is for you! This enlightening discussion will focus on the successful Reading by Grade 3 initiative in the Bethlehem Area School District and the strategies and methods behind the district’s approach to instruction and intervention. Our guest, an expert in literacy education who’s been instrumental in shifting the district’s approach to reading instruction and intervention, will share how educators used assessment data to ensure every student is successfully learning to read and write and overcome challenges—regardless of cause. Our expert will share: The importance of having systems and structures in place The importance of teacher and administrator knowledge about using data The route to getting the best, most useful data How to tailor instruction and intervention once the data is in your hands When and how to implement intervention What to do when intervention isn’t working…
 
We know students thrive on routine, but how does the concept of routine work in the classroom setting during phonics instruction? Join us as we explore what the ideal classroom environment should look like, sound like, and be like during foundational skills lessons. Picture this: Students eagerly engaged in activities like listening, repeating, decoding, encoding, and applying skills to text. Jessica Farmer of Farmer Loves Phonics will highlight several routines for different aspects of the primary reading block and what literacy coaches, administrators, and others should look for during an observation of these lessons—and how to help classroom teachers integrate these routines. During this episode, you'll discover: What phonics instruction looks like and sounds like in the primary classroom Lesson structure breakdown for whole-group instruction Routines for decoding and encoding practice The benefits of choral response during word blending, dictation, and fluency practice exercises…
 
School change is hard…but it can be done! Join us as we talk about what it takes to transform a school’s culture of practice to be more aligned with the scientific evidence base on reading, and why it’s worth the effort. Dr. Heidi Beverine-Curry of The Reading League will share how a single school or entire district can transition successfully to teaching reading based on science, and how that transition can dramatically improve overall literacy and student outcomes. Join us as we discuss: What it takes to transform a school toward alignment with the scientific evidence base on reading Common obstacles and tips for overcoming them Examples of what is possible from The Reading League’s real-life work with schools…
 
We know from decades of rigorous research how students learn to read and how they should be taught. Nevertheless, many elements of evidence-based reading instruction are missing from K–2 classrooms. Join this fascinating and applicable discussion with one of education’s most respected researchers, Dr. Barbara Foorman, as she shares the research-based facts about what is often missing and how to rectify that in the school or classroom. Dr. Foorman will share a range of helpful curriculum specifics, word-identification strategies, differentiation, and more. Listeners will leave this discussion with new understanding of: What's missing in K–2 reading instruction? How to fill the gaps in K–2 reading instruction with evidence-based practices Ways to differentiate instruction so all students learn to read The importance of (a) privileging word-identification strategies over picture and syntactic cues to ensure accurate word identification, and (b) handwriting fluency Strategies to apply in the classroom by using assessment data to form flexible reading groups and to encourage writing in support of reading…
 
In this conversation, Dr. Pamela Snow will discuss oral language in early childhood and across the school years, with a focus on its importance and role in developing, and being developed by, reading skills. She will also discuss the importance of applying public health principles to early reading instruction, to maximize success for all through evidence-based reading instruction and support. Language and literacy are a two-way street that is not always well understood. Oral language abilities promote reading abilities and vice versa, and as research has shown, early reading success loops back to oral language skills. How can educators use this knowledge to help ALL students learn to read? Join this fascinating conversation with Dr. Snow, a respected researcher, author, and professor of cognitive psychology in the School of Education at La Trobe University in Australia. She will share her experience and insight into research findings about why early oral language skills are the essential engine children need to bring to school (and indeed, have strengthened through their school experiences). Dr. Snow will discuss why children need to be exposed to more complex vocabulary and syntactic structures than typical conversation affords, and how teachers of these early learners can help their students master the skills they need to become lifelong readers and communicators. In this podcast, you’ll learn: How decoding and language comprehension need to work together in reading acquisition and ongoing development Ways to incorporate explicit teaching of morphology and etymology in early stages of systematic phonics instruction Why children who do master reading early have a lasting edge on those who do not What teachers of early learners can do every day to help students build both oral and reading skills Importance of the scientific method in informing policy and practice in schools and the importance of avoiding pseudoscientific approaches, no matter how appealing they may seem…
 
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