Shanahan on Literacy

This discussion dives into the importance of fluency instruction for middle and high school students. It explores why fluency is crucial for reading comprehension at these levels. The conversation highlights differing opinions on whether all students require this instruction. Additionally, the need to engage students with challenging texts is emphasized as a way to bolster their skills. Resources for further exploration of fluency instruction are also provided, making the topic even more compelling.

Teaching students with texts above their reading levels can enhance literacy skills dramatically. The discussion tackles misconceptions about guided reading, emphasizing the role of complex literature in education. Effective scaffolding strategies for supporting below-grade-level readers are explored, particularly in subjects like science and social studies. This approach not only promotes fluency but also helps engage students with challenging content. It's all about empowering learners to rise to new literary heights!

The ability to identify the letters is one of the best predictors of later reading ability. That makes it a valuable tool for helping to identify which children are likely to struggle with reading. But why is that? This podcast explores what is known about the role of letter names in the learning to read. (This podcast includes a misinterpretation of a study by Byrne and Fielding-Barnsley. I assumed that when they introduced letters into their PA intervention that they named the letters. I was incorrect in that assumption as Christopher Such pointed out on my website and in social media. That means that there is no evidence that teaching letter names improves reading achievement (though including plastic letters in PA instruction was positive). There is also no evidence that students are benefited by not teaching letter names or that it is better to only introduce sounds for letters than for names. That means I still side with theories that argue for spending a small amount of time teaching letters, but unlike what is incorrectly claimed in this podcast there is still NO direct evidence supporting that belief. This note was added on September 30, 2024).

It makes sense that giving students lots of time at school to read independently, right? This podcast explores that idea and reveals why it isn't the way to go.

This podcast explores a parent's homework complaint. Her first grader is to do a 1-minute read each evening, and parents are to time it and calculate words correct per minute. Is this a good idea or something more nefarious? Tune in and find out.

Usually reading seatwork is work aimed at keeping kids busy rather than teaching them. This podcast suggests some ways to make seatwork a plus rather than a minus when it comes to reading achievement.

Explore the intriguing balance between the science of reading and the art of teaching. Discover how scientific research shapes educational practices while emphasizing the importance of empathy and personal connection in the classroom. Learn how these two elements can coexist and enhance student learning, creating a more holistic approach to literacy.

There are arguments in reading circles about the best way to teach phonics -- should the focus be on decoding from print to speech (like someone sounding out a word) or from speech to print (like someone trying to spell). This podcast will explore the evidence on both sides.

Discover the concept of 'graficacy' and its critical role in education. The discussion reveals how students can learn to interpret graphics in subjects like science and social studies. Explore the potential distractions visuals may pose for early readers. Learn how integrating graphics can enhance reading comprehension and lead to more enriching classroom discussions. This insightful conversation emphasizes the importance of teaching both textual and visual analysis skills for deeper learning.

Discover the significance of oral reading fluency in education and why it matters. Learn effective strategies for teaching fluency, including how to select the right texts. Get tips on pairing kids for reading practice and understanding the level of fluency required. This insightful dialogue emphasizes a renewed focus on fluency instruction in classrooms, ensuring educators have practical advice at their fingertips.