Science of Reading: The Podcast
A guide to integrating knowledge building into your classroom, with Jackie Relyea, Ph.D.
May 7, 2025
In this illuminating discussion, Jackie Relyea, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor of Literacy Education at North Carolina State University, shares her expertise on integrating background knowledge into teaching. She explains the power of read-alouds and word walls in building comprehension for multilingual learners. Jackie also emphasizes that vocabulary is just one aspect of conceptual knowledge. With a focus on creating a knowledge-rich curriculum, she highlights the joy of learning and engagement in literacy education.
42:49
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Quick takeaways
- Integrating background knowledge into literacy instruction enhances reading comprehension, fostering connections between new and existing information.
- Interactive strategies like read-alouds and concept mapping significantly boost vocabulary acquisition and literacy skills for all learners, particularly multilingual students.
Deep dives
Importance of Knowledge Building in Literacy
Knowledge building is crucial for reading comprehension, yet it is often overlooked in standard literacy instruction. While established pillars like phonemic awareness and vocabulary are essential, recent research shows that understanding how students connect new information to what they already know—referred to as schema—is equally significant. For example, students with a strong foundational knowledge on ecosystems find it easier to grasp complex topics like climate change. By designing reading experiences around meaningful, interconnected topics, students can deepen their understanding and foster better reading skills over time.
