Science of Reading: The Podcast

Podcast host Susan Lambert gives you a first look at Season 10 of Science of Reading: The Podcast. This season will focus on reading comprehension, taking a deep dive into what is ultimately the goal of every classroom: breaking down why comprehension matters and how to achieve it. Get a glimpse into the season’s different angles on comprehension, as well as the expert guests you can look forward to hearing from.Show notes:Access free, high-quality resources at our brand new, companion professional learning page: http://amplify.com/science-of-reading/professional-learning  Join our community Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/scienceofreadingConnect with Susan Lambert: www.linkedin.com/in/susan-lambert-b1512761/Trailer: Beyond My Years is back for Season 2!

In this engaging discussion, Susan Lambert, an experienced educator and advocate for literacy, teams up with hosts Ana Torres and Eric Cross. They emphasize that every educator plays a crucial role in literacy development, regardless of subject matter. Susan shares practical tips for enhancing academic language, highlighting strategies like connecting new vocabulary to existing knowledge. The trio also explores the importance of coherence in instruction and how building knowledge should be a school-wide initiative. Eric illustrates these concepts through Scarborough's Rope, expanding literacy beyond traditional boundaries.

Amie Burkholder, a literacy coach and author of "Literacy Unlocked," joins the discussion to share actionable insights for educators. She addresses the evolution of the Science of Reading movement and the struggles teachers face in adopting research-based methods. Practical classroom activities, especially focused on phonemic awareness, are highlighted to enhance literacy instruction. Amie emphasizes the need for manageable changes and accessible resources, encouraging educators to create a supportive reading community.

Tim Shanahan, Distinguished Professor Emeritus and a renowned literacy expert, delves into his book, 'Leveled Reading, Leveled Lives.' He challenges the effectiveness of leveled reading, arguing it often holds students back rather than helping them. Shanahan advocates for explicit instruction and practical strategies teachers can implement to enhance reading outcomes. He highlights the importance of tackling complex sentence structures for better comprehension and stresses the need for a comprehensive approach to literacy that addresses diverse student needs.

Sharon Vaughn, a leading researcher and Executive Director at the Meadow Center for Preventing Educational Risk, joins expert Hugh Catts from Florida State University to dive deep into the complexities of reading comprehension. They discuss reframing comprehension not just as a skill but as a multifaceted outcome influenced by vocabulary and background knowledge. The conversation emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions, selecting appropriate texts, and understanding that reading serves a purpose beyond mere comprehension.

Anne Lucas, former curriculum director and now Associate VP at Amplify, shares her expertise on the intricate nature of reading comprehension. She discusses why comprehension can be challenging to teach and introduces her K-8 digital program designed to enhance these skills. Lucas highlights the importance of micro skills and connective words in improving understanding. She also emphasizes how personal background knowledge influences reading comprehension, offering insights that can boost student learning.

Daniel Willingham, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Virginia and author of 'The Reading Mind,' discusses the crucial role of knowledge in reading comprehension. He dives into the limitations of comprehension strategies and emphasizes the importance of background knowledge for better text engagement. Willingham highlights the delicate balance between phonics and knowledge-rich curricula and explores how both are vital for critical thinking. Lastly, he offers insightful strategies to enhance literacy outcomes through well-rounded educational approaches.

Nathaniel Swain, Ph.D., a senior lecturer in learning sciences and author, dives into the essentials of knowledge-rich curricula and its critical role in education. He challenges misconceptions about teaching in the 21st century, emphasizing how foundational knowledge fosters creativity and collaboration. The podcast also explores cognitive load theory, illustrating how effective teaching can enhance memory retention. Swain advocates for continuous learning and integration of evidence-based strategies to improve literacy and overall educational outcomes.

Join Steve Graham, a prominent scholar and writing expert from Arizona State University, as he dives into essential writing instruction. He emphasizes the profound connection between reading and writing, revealing how teaching both together enriches literacy. Graham discusses the need for clear feedback and how to enhance sentence structure, making writing more impactful. With practical strategies and insights, he inspires educators to foster confident, capable writers in their classrooms.

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.