42. Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? with Alejandra Ramirez

Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators

#Higher Education #Podcasting Education #Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach #Science of Reading Advocate #Conversation Series

30:23

Tiffany Yu is the CEO & Founder of Diversability, an award-winning social enterprise to elevate disability pride; the Founder of the Awesome Foundation Disability Chapter, a monthly micro-grant that has awarded $92.5k to 93 disability projects in 11 countries; and the author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World. As a person with visible and invisible disabilities stemming from a car crash, Tiffany has built a career on disability solidarity. Now that she has found success, she works to expand a network of people with disabilities and their allies to decrease stigmas around disability and create opportunities for disabled people in America. Episode Chapters 0:00 Intro 1:26 When do we choose to share our disability stories? 4:12 Jay’s disability story 8:35 Visible and invisible disabilities 13:10 What does an ally to the disability community look like? 16:34 NoBodyIsDisposable and 14(c) 21:26 How does Tiffany’s investment banking background shape her advocacy? 27:47 Goodbye and outro For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/…

18 days ago 37:12

MP3•Episode home

With over a decade of experience in dual language programs and extensive training in LETRS and Esperanza, Alejandra brings a nuanced and equity-centered lens to structured literacy. In this episode, Alejandra unpacks common misconceptions, explores the importance of oral language, and discusses how foundational skills instruction can be adapted to support bilingual and multilingual learners.

Key Takeaways:

Why Structured Literacy is for multilingual learners
The importance of cross-linguistic connections
The role of explicit instruction, teacher mindset, and instructional equity

Resources & Notable Figures Mentioned:

Esperanza Dyslexia Program
LETRS Training
Book: Aprender a Leer by Stanislas Dehaene, neuroscientist
Claude Goldenberg
Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Book: Literacy Foundations for English Learners: A Comprehensive Guide to Evidence-Based Instruction by Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Dr. Antonio Fierro
Dr. José Medina

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!

Connect with Alejandra Ramirez:

Instagram: @stuffaboutreading

Connect with Me:

Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom
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

45 episodes

42. Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? with Alejandra Ramirez

Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators

published 18 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Key Takeaways:

Why Structured Literacy is for multilingual learners
The importance of cross-linguistic connections
The role of explicit instruction, teacher mindset, and instructional equity

Resources & Notable Figures Mentioned:

Esperanza Dyslexia Program
LETRS Training
Book: Aprender a Leer by Stanislas Dehaene, neuroscientist
Claude Goldenberg
Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Book: Literacy Foundations for English Learners: A Comprehensive Guide to Evidence-Based Instruction by Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan
Dr. Antonio Fierro
Dr. José Medina

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!

Connect with Alejandra Ramirez:

Instagram: @stuffaboutreading

Connect with Me:

Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom
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

45 episodes

#Higher Education #Podcasting Education #Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach #Science of Reading Advocate #Conversation Series

All episodes

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44. 4 Warm-Up Drills for Effective Phonics Instruction 17:42

4 days ago17:42

17:42

In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re diving into 4 quick, high-impact phonics drills that spark engagement and build automaticity, without eating up your entire lesson time. These warm-ups aren’t about “drill and kill.” Instead, they’re short, intentional routines that help students review and retrieve previously taught phonics content. Whether you’re a classroom teacher or interventionist, these drills can be used flexibly, across whole group, small group, or even 1:1 settings. 4 Types of Drills: Visual Drill Auditory Drill Vowel Drill Blending Drill Whether you’re just starting with structured literacy or looking to refine your phonics block, these quick drills are a powerful way to build momentum and confidence for every student. Helpful Tools: Sound Deck for Visual Drill Spelling Frequency Posters Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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43. Rock Your Literacy Block with Lindsay Kemeny 34:58

11 days ago34:58

34:58

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by the incredible Lindsay Kemeny, a trusted voice in the Science of Reading community and author of Seven Mighty Moves and Rock Your Literacy Block . Lindsay shares her journey into structured literacy, sparked by her son’s dyslexia diagnosis, and how that led to a complete transformation in her teaching and professional work. We dive into her brand-new book, Rock Your Literacy Block , and explore what it means to build a strong, responsive, and efficient literacy block that aligns with the Science of Reading. Lindsay offers practical strategies, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at how she organizes her day, structures her small groups, and maximizes every minute of instructional time. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by scheduling, pacing, or finding the “perfect” literacy routine, this conversation is a breath of fresh air. Lindsay reminds us that it’s not about perfection - it’s about progress. Key Takeaways: The inspiration behind Rock Your Literacy Block The must-have components of an effective literacy block The art of pacing and maximizing instructional minutes Resources Mentioned: Book : Rock Your Literacy Block by Lindsay Kemeny Book : Seven Mighty Moves by Lindsay Kemeny Book: Seven Mighty Moves Reading Resources by Lindsay Kemeny The Science of Reading in Practice Series (Scholastic) 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! Connect with Lindsay Kemeny: Instagram: @lindsaykemeny Facebook: Teaching with Lindsay Kemeny LinkedIn: Lindsay Kemeny X: @lindsaykemeny Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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42. Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? with Alejandra Ramirez 37:12

18 days ago37:12

37:12

In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, a seasoned bilingual educator, reading coordinator, and literacy leader, to explore one of the most important questions in today’s classrooms: Is the Science of Reading for Multilingual Learners? With over a decade of experience in dual language programs and extensive training in LETRS and Esperanza, Alejandra brings a nuanced and equity-centered lens to structured literacy. In this episode, Alejandra unpacks common misconceptions, explores the importance of oral language, and discusses how foundational skills instruction can be adapted to support bilingual and multilingual learners. Key Takeaways: Why Structured Literacy is for multilingual learners The importance of cross-linguistic connections The role of explicit instruction, teacher mindset, and instructional equity Resources & Notable Figures Mentioned: Esperanza Dyslexia Program LETRS Training Book: Aprender a Leer by Stanislas Dehaene , neuroscientist Claude Goldenberg Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan Book: Literacy Foundations for English Learners: A Comprehensive Guide to Evidence-Based Instruction by Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan Dr. Antonio Fierro Dr. José Medina 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! Connect with Alejandra Ramirez: Instagram: @stuffaboutreading Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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41. Small Groups Aligned with the Science of Reading with Christina Winter, Lead in Literacy 44:48

25 days ago44:48

44:48

In this episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by my dear friend, Christina Winter from Lead in Literacy. Together, we dive into one of the hottest topics in structured literacy: small group instruction. While some Science of Reading conversations debate whether small groups have a place in the literacy block, Christina reminds us that when done correctly—grounded in assessment, efficiency, and aligned routines—small groups can be one of the most powerful tools to differentiate instruction and target students’ exact needs. Christina walks us through her ABC Framework for small groups: A — Assess B — Be Efficient C — Cut the Fluff We also discuss how to fit small groups into busy schedules, what effective routines look like, how to handle pacing, and why teachers don't need to feel guilty about not seeing every student every day. Key Takeaways: How small group instruction supports differentiated, targeted reading instruction. The importance of assessment-driven groupings based on universal screeners (Acadience, DIBELS, i-Ready, etc.) Why consistent instructional routines reduce teacher overwhelm and student anxiety. High-impact routines for small group instruction: phonemic awareness, word mapping, high-frequency words, blending, decodable text, comprehension, dictation, and word awareness. Teachers should prioritize students below benchmark for daily small groups while others can be seen less frequently. Resources Mentioned: Christina's Free Small Group Toolkit (downloadable resource with lessons & templates) Book: A Fresh Look at Phonic s by Wiley Blevins Dr. Julia Lindsey’s Instagram Post Stephanie Stollar’s Reading Science Academy Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear 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! Connect with Christina Winter: Website: https://leadinliteracy.com/ Instagram: @lead.in.literacy Christina’s Membership Site: Leaders of Literacy Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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40. Why Read-Alouds Matter: Equity, Comprehension, and Book Access with Dr. Molly Ness 42:49

5 weeks ago42:49

42:49

In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color , we are joined by Dr. Molly Ness to explore the deep impact of read-alouds , particularly think-alouds , as well as book access .. Dr. Ness, educator, author of Read Aloud for All Learners , and host of the End Book Deserts podcast, brings her research, experience, and passion to this conversation about how language comprehension is often overlooked, but absolutely essential in the Science of Reading-centered conversations. Dr. Ness shares what the research says about read-alouds, how teacher planning (or lack thereof) affects instructional impact, and what educators can do to be more intentional in their read-aloud routines. We also unpack the concept of book deserts , areas where children lack access to books in their homes, schools, and communities. Dr. Ness shares creative ideas and solutions for bringing books to the kids who need them most. Key Takeaways: The concept of book deserts and why book access is an equity issue Creative ways to distribute books in under-resourced communities The physiological and emotional benefits of read-alouds for all ages What research tells us about the power of read-alouds for language comprehension How think-alouds support comprehension beyond simple questioning Planning read-alouds with intentionality: modeling, stopping points, & strategy alignment Resources Mentioned: Read Aloud for All Learners by Dr. Molly Ness Research: What Are Teachers Reading and Why?: An Analysis of Elementary Read Aloud Titles and the Rationales Underlying Teachers' Selections - Conradi-Smith, Craig Young, and Jane Core Yatzeck White paper on Language Comprehension written by Dr. Molly Ness Making Words Stick (newly released book by Dr. Molly Ness & Dr. Katie Pace Miles) 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! Connect with Dr. Molly Ness: Website: https://www.mollyness.com/ Website: https://www.dirigoliteracy.com/ LinkedIn: Molly Ness, PhD Instagram: @a_reading_mother BlueSky: @mollyness.bsky.social End Book Desert Podcast End Book Desert Website Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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39. Mastering Morphology - Introducing Logos Literacy Academy with Sarah Paul & Michelle Sullivan 37:06

6 weeks ago37:06

37:06

In this special episode of Literacy in Color , Michelle is joined by her brilliant friend, Sarah Paul , to officially unveil their new course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator . Together, Michelle and Sarah share the backstory behind their collaboration ( Logos Literacy Academy ), reflect on their own morphology journeys, and talk candidly about the challenges teachers face when trying to make sense of morphemes, word parts, and all things structural literacy. Whether you're brand new to morphology or ready to go deeper, this episode is equal parts strategy, story, and heart. Key Takeaways: Why morphology is the missing puzzle piece for many literacy classrooms How morphemes support struggling readers, gifted students, and everyone in between Practical entry points for teaching morphology—without needing to be a linguist A behind-the-scenes look at their course series and why it’s designed as a multi-course journey Resources Mentioned: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator - Morphology Course #1 (comprehensive & in-depth knowledge to build a solid foundation) Course #2 - Coming Fall 2025 will be geared for K-2 Educators (more curriculum-based) Course #3 - Coming Winter 2025 will be geared for 3-5 Educators (more curriculum-based) Logos Literacy Academy on IG: @logosliteracyacademy Etymonline Connect with Sarah Paul: Website Instagram TPT Store Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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38. Tier 1 Engagement Strategies with Jake Daggett 57:39

7 weeks ago57:39

57:39

I’m joined by the one and only Jake Daggett—educator, foundational literacy director, and all-around engagement strategist. If you've ever seen his viral phonics videos, you already know the energy and intentionality he brings to instruction. But there’s more to Jake than claps and chants—he’s deeply rooted in brain-based research and committed to helping all learners access joyful, responsive Tier 1 instruction. We unpack how retrieval practice, frequent response opportunities, and cognitive science principles make instruction stick—and why fun isn’t fluff when it’s grounded in purpose. From neurodivergent inclusion to flexible phonics lessons, Jake shares practical, actionable ways to create highly engaging classrooms that promote success for every learner. Whether you’re sing-songy or soft-spoken, you’ll walk away with real strategies to elevate your Tier 1 instruction tomorrow. Key Takeaways: The relationship between achievement and joy in learning Why retrieval practice and at-bats are essential for building automaticity The role of pitch, motion, and repetition in recall and engagement Flexible strategies that honor teacher style AND student need Resources Mentioned: Book: Explicit Instruction - Dr. Anita Archer Book: Just Tell Them: The Power of Explanations and Explicit Teaching - Zach Groshell Book: Harnessing the Science of Learning - Nathaniel Swain Book: Why Don’t Students Like School? - Dan Willingham Book: Differentiating Phonics Instruction for Maximum Impact - Wiley Blevins Book: 7 Mighty Moves - Lindsay Kemeny Book: 7 Mighty Moves: Reading Resources - Lindsay Kemeny Book: Rock Your Literacy Block - Lindsay Kemeny Book: Make it Stick: The Science of Successful Learning - Peter C. Brown Dan Willingham’s Website Timothy Shanahan’s Website – Shanahan on Literacy 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! Connect with Jake Daggett: Instagram: @jake_daggett Facebook: Engage with Jake TikTok: @jake_daggett X: @jake_daggett Website: https://www.engagewithjake.com/ Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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37. The Impact of Language and Leadership in Literacy with Dr. Danielle 'Nell' Thompson, The Transformative Reading Teacher Group 1:00:17

8 weeks ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Danielle “Nell” Thompson shares her powerful journey from a small town in North Dakota to Bush Alaska, all the way to becoming a transformational coach and the founder of the Big Sky Literacy Summit. Together, we explore how language is the foundation of literacy —not just for academic success, but for human connection, dignity, and transformation. We also dig into the intersection of language and leadership , discussing how deep systems change, intentional leadership, and relationship-driven instruction can move the literacy needle—not just for individual students, but entire school communities. Key Takeaways: Why oral language is both a risk factor and a protective factor in literacy development How early language experiences shape long-term life outcomes What true transformational leadership looks like in school settings Powerful tools for screening early oral language & providing intervention A heartfelt case study from Bush Alaska that will leave you inspired Resources Mentioned: Big Sky Literacy Summit 2025: Language is Everything Book: Speech to Print - Dr. Louisa Moats Book: Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills - Birsch & Carreker Book: Unlocking Literacy - Marcia Henry Hugh Catts: Viewing A Phonological Deficit within a Multifactorial Model of Dyslexia Book: Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experiences of Young American Children – Hart & Risley Book: 30 Million Words: Building a Child’s Brain – Dr. Dana Suskind The Abecedarian Project – Early childhood longitudinal study Podcast Episode 19: Oral Language & Reading with Elizabeth Doherty, The Reading SLP LanguageScreen – Oral language screener by Maggie Snowling & Charles Hulme Let’s Know! – FREE language curriculum developed by the Language and Reading Research Consortium (available via Ohio State) NELI (Nuffield Early Language Intervention) – Oral language program (includes the LanguageScreen Assessment ) Story Champs & ECHO – Language intervention tools from the Language Dynamics Group Book: It’s All About Language - Grigorenko, Shtirov, McArdle Book: Annual Growth for All Students, Catch-Up Growth for Those Who Are Behind - Fielding, Kerr, & Rosier Book: MTSS for Reading Improvement - Stephanie Stollar & Sarah Brown 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! Connect with Dr. Nell: Dr. Nell's Website: The Transformative Reading Teacher Group Big Sky Literacy Summit Website Email: DrNell@TheTransformativeReadingTeacher.com LinkedIn: Dr. Danielle “Nell” Thompson Facebook: Big Sky Literacy Summit Facebook: The Transformative Reading Teacher Group Join The Reading League Montana Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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36. Tips for Teaching the Alphabet with Heidi Martin, Droppin' Knowledge with Heidi 40:06

9 weeks ago40:06

40:06

In this episode of Literacy in Color , I’m chatting with Heidi Martin—also known as Droppin’ Knowledge with Heidi —to unpack what research says about effective alphabet instruction. Together, we explore common debates, research-based tips, and engaging strategies to teach the alphabet more effectively. From ditching letter-of-the-week traditions to embracing articulation and embedded mnemonics, this episode is packed with classroom-ready ideas and practical insights grounded in cognitive science. Heidi also shares why repeated and distributed practice is the key to building strong alphabet knowledge. Key Takeaways: Alphabet knowledge is a strong predictor of reading success What the research says about “letter of the week” Teach letter names and sounds together Teach uppercase and lowercase together Incorporate explicit handwriting instruction Use embedded mnemonics and articulation cues Advice about target picture(s) Alphabet knowledge should be joyful, not just rote Helpful Resources: Register for Science of Reading Mini-Con (July 10th, 2025 in Racine, Wisconsin)! Piasta & Wagner’s 2010 meta-analysis of Alphabet Learning & Instruction P is for Paint: A Mnemonic Alphabet Adventure! – Heidi’s embedded mnemonic alphabet book Decodable Adventure Series – Heidi’s decodable books Heidi & Adam Martin’s New Activity Book: Droppin' Knowledge on Foundational Skills: Phonological and Phonemic Awareness Exercises Aligned to the Science of Reading Heidi & Adam Martin’s New Activity Book: Droppin' Knowledge on Sight Words and Word Mapping: High-Frequency Word Exercises Aligned to the Science of Reading Heidi & Adam Martin’s New Activity Book: Droppin' Knowledge on Phonics: Spelling and Phonics Activities Aligned to the Science of Reading Helpful Instagram Post from Heidi on the Alphabet 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! Connect with Heidi Martin: Website: https://droppinknowledge.com/ TikTok - @droppinknowledgewheidi IG - @droppinknowledgewithheidi FB - Droppin' Knowledge with Heidi Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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35. Why Transcription Skills Matter in Early Writing Instruction with Amy Siracusano 49:37

10 weeks ago49:37

49:37

In this insightful episode, I sit down with literacy expert, Amy Siracusano, to unpack the critical role that transcription skills play in early writing development. Together, we explore why handwriting, spelling, and fine motor skills aren’t just mechanical tasks—they’re foundational tools that unlock a child’s ability to communicate their thoughts effectively. Amy breaks down the research, shares practical strategies, and shines a light on the often-overlooked building blocks that impact a child’s writing journey. Teachers will walk away with actionable tips and a deeper understanding of how transcription skills influence cognitive load, executive functioning, and writing fluency. Key Takeaways: Why automaticity in transcription is non-negotiable for freeing up cognitive resources for composition How explicit handwriting instruction supports both reading and writing fluency The connection between the writing brain and reading brain Practical ways teachers can integrate transcription skill-building into their literacy block Resources Mentioned: The Not-So-Simple View of Writing model The Handwriting Collaborative Handedness Research Institute National Handwriting Association University of Iowa (Clifter and Lifter materials) “Strengthening the Mind’s Eye” by Dr. Virginia Berninger “Handwriting in a Modern World” by William Van Cleave Dr. Berninger’s PALS program Informal assessments by Linda Farrell and Michael Hunter (Readsters) Practical tools Amy recommended: Short pencils Plastic sleeves/page protectors with 3-lined paper inside Thin, short dry erase markers Appropriate writing utensils (soft lead pencils, crayons for early writers) Three-lined paper for handwriting until automaticity is achieved Connect with Amy Siracusano: LinkedIn: Amy Siracusano Instagram: @amysiracusano Email: amysiracusano@gmail.com Connect with Amy at Upcoming Conferences: Big Sky Literacy Summit The Reading League Conference Plain Talk About Literacy and Learning Conference Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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34. Orthographic Mapping, Sight Words & High-Frequency Words: What Every Teacher Should Know 17:33

11 weeks ago17:33

17:33

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: Book: Making Words Stick: A Four-Step Instructional Routine to Power Up Orthographic Mapping (The Science of Reading in Practice) by Dr. Katie Pace Miles & Dr. Molly Ness 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 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…

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33. Spelling Error Analysis with Sydney Bassard, The Listening SLP 31:18

12 weeks ago31:18

31:18

What can spelling errors really tell us about a student’s literacy development? In this episode of Literacy in Color , I sit down with Sydney Bassard , speech-language pathologist and founder of The Listening SLP , to dig into the power of spelling error analysis . Sydney breaks down the five types of spelling errors teachers should be aware of, explains what these errors reveal about processing, and shares how this analysis can drive smarter, more responsive instruction. We also talk about language variation, hearing loss, articulation differences, and how educators can work alongside SLPs to deepen their understanding of language and literacy. Whether you’re new to analyzing spelling or ready to go beyond “right or wrong,” this conversation will shift your lens and strengthen your practice. Key Takeaways: Why spelling errors are a gold mine for instructional decision-making The five key categories of spelling errors: phonological, orthographic, mental graphemic, morphological, and semantic How hearing and language variation impact spelling How to incorporate spelling error analysis into your routine without burning out Why collaboration with SLPs can level up your structured literacy instruction Resources Mentioned: FREE PVM Chart (Place Voice Manner) Download Blog Post from The Literacy Nest : “Taking a Close Look at Spelling Errors: How a Spelling Assessment Can Inform Your Instruction” AI Hack: Use ChatGPT to run quick spelling error diagnostics (just double-check it!) Connect with Sydney Bassard: Website: https://www.thelisteningslp.com Instagram: @thelisteningslp Facebook: The Listening SLP Email: hello@thelisteningslp.com Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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32. Crafting High-Quality Decodable Books with Brooke Vitale, Charge Mommy Books 37:31

13 weeks ago37:31

37:31

In this episode of Literacy in Color , I'm joined by Brooke Vitale —veteran children’s book editor, author, and founder of Charge Mommy Books —to explore the art and science behind writing truly high-quality decodable books. With over 15+ years in publishing (including experience at Penguin and Disney!), Brooke brings a deep understanding of storytelling and language development to the world of structured literacy. We talk about what makes a decodable book not only controlled and phonics-aligned—but also joyful, engaging, and instructionally meaningful. From story structure to word choice to illustration strategy, this conversation is packed with insight for anyone who creates or uses decodables in the classroom. Key Takeaways: What makes a decodable high-quality beyond just phonics alignment The importance of story arc, character development, and humor in early readers Why illustrations matter—and how they can enhance comprehension without becoming guessing crutches How to navigate decodability expectations without sacrificing language integrity Resources Mentioned: Shop Charge Mommy Books Charge Mommy Books on Amazon Charge Mommy Books via Booksource Connect with Brooke Vitale: Website: https://brookevitale.com/ Instagram: @chargemommybooks Facebook: Charge Mommy Books Charge Mommy Book’s Literacy Specialist, Marissa Ware on Instagram: @mwliteracy Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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31. Stop the Robotic Reading – Building Fluency with MeQuel Bolden 23:41

14 weeks ago23:41

23:41

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by literacy coach and consultant MeQuel Bolden . With over a decade of classroom experience and a deep commitment to structured literacy, MeQuel shares insight into what reading fluency really is—and what it’s not. We unpack common fluency misconceptions , dive into what’s happening in the brain when students become fluent, and share research-aligned strategies that move students from robotic to expressive, confident reading. You’ll walk away with: A clear definition of fluency (hint: it’s not about speed) Practical tips to make fluency practice engaging and purposeful Ideas for fluency practice A reminder that fluency is for all ages , not just primary learners Whether you’re just getting started with structured literacy or looking to strengthen fluency instruction in your small groups, this episode is packed with practical tools and encouragement to support your readers. Resources Mentioned: Fluency FREEBIE from MeQuel Bolden The Mega Book of Fluency (2nd Edition) by Tim Rasinski & Melissa Cheesman Watch MeQuel Bolden’s Pre-Recorded Bonus Session : “Stop the Robotic Reading: 3 Strategies to Build Fluent Readers” for Science of Reading Mini-Con this July! 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! Connect with MeQuel Bolden: Website: https://www.mequelbolden.com/ Instagram: @mequelboldenconsulting LinkedIn: MeQuel Bolden Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom 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…

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30. Making Sense of Suffixes: Inflectional vs. Derivational Suffixes 21:43

15 weeks ago21:43