Episode 151 (from June 23, 2023)

How Language Variations Shape Literacy

Language and reading go hand in hand—but how can we leverage students’ linguistic strengths to support literacy?

In this episode, Julie Washington, a professor at the University of California, Irvine, who specializes in the intersection of language and literacy, breaks down the power of language variations, like African American English, and how understanding them can transform how we teach reading.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Language variations are a strength, not a barrier
✅ Students need to navigate both their home dialect and academic language
✅ Educators must set high expectations while embracing linguistic diversity

Julie shares research-backed insights and practical strategies to help educators create inclusive, effective literacy instruction. Tune in and learn how to make a real impact!

Resources

Teaching Reading to African American Children by Julie Washington and Mark Seidenberg
The Opportunity Myth by TNTP
The Academic English Mastery Program by LAUSD

We answer your questions about teaching reading in The Literacy 50-A Q&A Handbook for Teachers: Real-World Answers to Questions About Reading That Keep You Up at Night.

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