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

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 compositionHow explicit handwriting instruction supports both reading and writing fluencyThe connection between the writing brain and reading brainPractical ways teachers can integrate transcription skill-building into their literacy blockResources Mentioned:The Not-So-Simple View of Writing modelThe Handwriting CollaborativeHandedness Research InstituteNational Handwriting AssociationUniversity of Iowa (Clifter and Lifter materials)“Strengthening the Mind’s Eye” by Dr. Virginia Berninger“Handwriting in a Modern World” by William Van CleaveDr. Berninger’s PALS programInformal assessments by Linda Farrell and Michael Hunter (Readsters)Practical tools Amy recommended:Short pencilsPlastic sleeves/page protectors with 3-lined paper insideThin, short dry erase markersAppropriate writing utensils (soft lead pencils, crayons for early writers)Three-lined paper for handwriting until automaticity is achievedConnect with Amy Siracusano:LinkedIn: Amy SiracusanoInstagram: @amysiracusanoEmail: amysiracusano@gmail.comConnect with Amy at Upcoming Conferences:Big Sky Literacy SummitThe Reading League ConferencePlain Talk About Literacy and Learning ConferenceConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

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 activityHow words become mapped for instant recognitionWhy explicit instruction—not memorization—is key to building fluent readersHow to group high-frequency words by phonics features for better transfer and masteryResources 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 NessThis 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 BoxesSeasonal Word Mapping BoardsBlog Post: Why Orthographic Mapping is Important when Teaching High Frequency WordsFREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to KnowConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

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-makingThe five key categories of spelling errors: phonological, orthographic, mental graphemic, morphological, and semanticHow hearing and language variation impact spellingHow to incorporate spelling error analysis into your routine without burning outWhy collaboration with SLPs can level up your structured literacy instructionResources Mentioned:FREE PVM Chart (Place Voice Manner) DownloadBlog 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.comInstagram: @thelisteningslpFacebook: The Listening SLPEmail: hello@thelisteningslp.comConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

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 alignmentThe importance of story arc, character development, and humor in early readersWhy illustrations matter—and how they can enhance comprehension without becoming guessing crutchesHow to navigate decodability expectations without sacrificing language integrityResources Mentioned:Shop Charge Mommy BooksCharge Mommy Books on AmazonCharge Mommy Books via BooksourceConnect with Brooke Vitale:Website: https://brookevitale.com/Instagram: @chargemommybooksFacebook: Charge Mommy BooksCharge Mommy Book’s Literacy Specialist, Marissa Ware on Instagram: @mwliteracyConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

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 purposefulIdeas for fluency practiceA reminder that fluency is for all ages, not just primary learnersWhether 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 BoldenThe Mega Book of Fluency (2nd Edition) by Tim Rasinski & Melissa CheesmanWatch 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: @mequelboldenconsultingLinkedIn: MeQuel BoldenConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

In this solo episode, Michelle Sullivan breaks down one morpheme type: suffixes. You’ll learn the difference between inflectional and derivational suffixes, how they operate in our language system, and why understanding suffixes is critical for building skilled readers, spellers, and thinkers.Michelle takes you on a deep dive into how suffixes shape grammar and meaning. From tweaking verb tense to building entirely new words, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink how you teach word structure — and equipped with practical knowledge for your next morphology lesson.Key Takeaways:What is a suffix, really?The difference between inflectional and derivational suffixes (with examples!)How suffixes impact grammar, syntax, and word meaningWhether you're new to morphology or a seasoned word-nerd, this episode will help you see suffixes in a whole new light.You May Also Be Interested In:Episode 26: Morphology 101 (for a crash course on the basics)Connect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

In this episode, Kristina Harrill, founder of Sweet for Kindergarten, joins me to share her passion for phonemic awareness and hands-on learning. We discuss the importance of bridging phonemic awareness and phonics instruction, debunk the myth that phonemic awareness has to be done in the dark, and dive into engaging, multisensory activities teachers can implement right away. Whether you’re an educator or a parent, this episode is packed with practical tips and tools to make phonemic awareness fun and impactful.Key Takeaways:Myth Busting about Phonemic AwarenessConnecting Phonemic Awareness to Phonics3 Hands-On Activities for BlendingResources Mentioned:FREE 3-Day Video Series on the Power of Phonemic Awareness: www.sweetforkindergarten.com/power (Use code PODCAST for $5 off!)Griffith and Olson Article (1992) - “Phonemic awareness helps beginning readers break the code”Connect with Kristina HarrillWebsite: https://sweetforkindergarten.com/Instagram: @KristinaHarrill and @SweetforKindergartenTPT Store: Sweet for Kindergarten - Kristina Harrill Facebook: Kindergarten Tips & TricksEmail: kristina@sweetforkindergarten.comConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

Dr. Stephanie Stollar, co-author of 'MTSS for Reading Improvement' and founder of Reading Science Academy, dives deep into the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). She clarifies that MTSS isn't just an intervention model but a holistic framework for literacy improvement. Stollar discusses the importance of data-driven decisions and effective core teaching, while debunking myths about the system. The conversation also touches on proactive strategies for special education and the need for collaboration among educators to enhance student outcomes.

What exactly is the schwa sound, and why is it such an important part of the English language? Yvette Manns, author of the Phonics Read-Alouds series and founder of National Schwa Day, joins me to dive deep into everything schwa—what it is, how it functions in words, and why teaching it explicitly is a game-changer for reading and spelling instruction. We also chat about the official National Schwa Day, how teachers can celebrate, and fun, engaging strategies to help students understand this “not-so-lazy” vowel sound!Key Takeaways:What is the Schwa Sound?Why Teaching Schwa MattersHow to Teach Schwa EffectivelyCelebrating National Schwa Day!Resources Mentioned:FREE National Schwa Day Educator Toolkit (FREE 43-page resource!)  - Download the toolkit and celebrate National Schwa Day on April 7th!National Schwa Day Website: https://nationalschwaday.org/The Not-So-Lazy-Schwa Book written by Yvette MannsPhonics Read-Alouds Series Website – PhonicsReadAlouds.comPhonics Read-Alouds Series on AmazonThe Viral 44 Phonemes Video featuring Yvette Manns – Watch on YouTubeSlant System PassagesFrom Speech to Print - Dr. Louisa MoatsSee Yvette & I present at the Science of Reading Mini-Con Conference - July 10th, 2025 in Racine, WI!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 Yvette Manns:Website: https://www.yvettemanns.com/Instagram: @phonicsreadaloudsFacebook: Phonics Read-AloudTikTok :@PhonicsReadAloudsEmail: info@phonicsreadalouds.comConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership

Morphology is one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, components of your literacy block. In this episode, I break down the basics of morphology and explain why it’s essential for structured literacy to help students read, spell, and understand words more effectively. If you’ve ever wondered why students struggle with multisyllabic words, spelling patterns, or vocabulary — morphology might just be the missing piece!Key Takeaways:What is Morphology?Different Types of MorphemesHow Morphology Supports Reading & SpellingWhy Morphology Matters in Structured LiteracyResources Mentioned:The Colorful Literacy Toolkit Membership Sue Hegland’s Book: Beneath the Surface of Words: What English Spelling Reveals and Why It Matters By Sue HeglandThis 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:FREE Word Matrix & Word Sums TemplateLatin Word Matrices BundleMEGA Morphology Growing BundleFREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to KnowConnect with Me:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroomJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership