TRT Podcast 177: A simple way to improve comprehension through writing Research tells us that students comprehend text better when they write about it. Here's how to use a simple sentence expansion activity to improve comprehension. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
A simple routine for teaching expository text structure
TRT Podcast 176: A simple routine for teaching expository text structure Use this simple routine to teach any of the expository text structures: sequence, description, cause and effect, compare and contrast, or problem and solution. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
How to choose words for vocabulary instruction
TRT Podcast #175: How to choose words for vocabulary instruction We know it's important to teach particular vocabulary words in depth - but how do we choose from the many thousands of words that students might encounter? These six questions will help you choose words for vocabulary instruction. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
Here’s what we do and don’t know about using decodable text
TRT Podcast #173: Here's what we do and don't know about decodable text We know that it's important to practice applying the phonics skills they've been taught, but what does research really say about using decodable text? What are questions do we still have? Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
Answering questions about the science of reading that keep you up at night – with Melissa & Lori Love Literacy
TRT Podcast #172: Answering science of reading questions that keep you up at night Melissa Loftus and Lori Sappington, hosts of the popular Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, have written a fabulous new book! In this episode we discuss "The Literacy 50: A Q & A Handbook for Teachers: Real-World Answers to Questions about Reading that Keep You Up at Night." Listen to the episode here Full episode ... Read More
The most important things to remember when teaching phonemic awareness
TRT Podcast #171: The most important things to remember when teaching phonemic awareness Phonemic awareness can feel like an overwhelming topic ... but you'll find the most important things to remember in this 3-minute episode. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
What does research say about oral language?
TRT Podcast #170: What does research say about oral language? The Big 5 (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension) get a lot of attention - but what about oral language? Oral language deserves attention because it is the foundation of both word recognition and language comprehension. In this episode I share a short summary of what research tells us about oral language and reading. Listen ... Read More
Why the science of reading needs the science of learning
TRT Podcast #169: Why the science of reading needs the science of learning The science of reading tells us WHAT to teach - but we also need the science of learning. The science of learning tells us HOW to teach - so that our teaching is more effective and efficient. Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript ... Read More
How to differentiate phonics instruction – with Alison Ryan
TRT Podcast #168: How to differentiate phonics instruction - with Alison Ryan Alison Ryan, author of The Phonics Playbook, explains how to differentiate phonics instruction during whole class lessons and/or during small group lessons. I highly recommend her new book, which breaks this down for busy teachers! Listen to the episode here Full episode transcript Alison's books and other resources NEW ... Read More
How to give explicit writing instruction in the primary grades – with Sally Bergquist
TRT Podcast #167: How to give explicit writing instruction in the primary grades - with Sally Bergquiest Sally Bergquist is an experienced teacher who has written an explicit, structured writing program for K-2. Listen to learn her tips for getting kids started in kindergarten, gradually building their writing skills throughout the primary grades, and finding the right balance between explicit instruction and ... Read More