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34. Orthographic Mapping, Sight Words & High-Frequency Words: What Every Teacher Should Know
Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators
Manage episode 479713749 series 3609958
Content provided by Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach & Science of Reading Advocate, Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach, and Science of Reading Advocate. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach & Science of Reading Advocate, Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach, and Science of Reading Advocate 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.
In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we’re cutting through the confusion around sight words, high-frequency words, and orthographic mapping. You’ll get a clear, research-backed understanding of how the brain actually learns words — and why traditional memorization strategies just don’t cut it.
Michelle breaks down why every word "wants to grow up and become a sight word" and shares how teachers can make smart instructional moves that build strong, fluent readers by honoring what we know from the Science of Reading.
If you’ve ever wondered:
- Should I still send home sight word flashcards?
- What’s orthographic mapping actually mean?
- How can I organize my high-frequency instruction around phonics skills?
...this episode will answer ALL of that (and more!) in a practical, empowering way.
Key Takeaways:
- The difference between sight words and high-frequency words (hint: they're not the same)
- What orthographic mapping is—and why it’s not an activity
- How words become mapped for instant recognition
- Why explicit instruction—not memorization—is key to building fluent readers
- How to group high-frequency words by phonics features for better transfer and mastery
Resources Mentioned:
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!
Other Helpful Resources:
- High Frequency Words Sorted Phonics by Skill, Mapped in Sound Boxes
- Seasonal Word Mapping Boards
- Blog Post: Why Orthographic Mapping is Important when Teaching High Frequency Words
- FREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know
Connect with Me:
- Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademy
- Join our Facebook Community
- Sign up for my Newsletter
- Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom
- Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com
- Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership
Want to Support the Podcast?
- Make a Donation to Support Production
Interested in Learning More about Morphology?
- Take our Course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator
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