13. What Is Structured Literacy? Literacy In Color: A Science Of Reading Aligned Podcast For Educators podcast

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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 Morphemes How Morphology Supports Reading & Spelling Why Morphology Matters in Structured Literacy Resources 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 Hegland 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! Other Helpful Resources: FREE Word Matrix & Word Sums Template Latin Word Matrices Bundle MEGA Morphology Growing Bundle FREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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25. Why are Decodable Texts Important? with Hooked on Comics 47:44

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Brittany and Jackie from Hooked on Comics join us to discuss why decodable texts are essential for building foundational reading skills. We dive into what makes a text truly decodable, how these texts support structured literacy, and their unique approach to creating engaging decodable comics. Whether you’re new to using decodable texts or looking for creative ways to integrate them into your instruction, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration. Key Takeaways: What are Decodable Texts? Why Decodable Texts Matter What Sets Hooked on Comics Apart Tips for Using Decodables in the Classroom: Resources Mentioned: FREE: Brittany & Jackie have 4 FREE comics available for download in their TPT store ! Their comics have also been vetted and approved by the Reading League! Sold a Story Podcast FREE: UFLI Decodable Passages The Reading League’s Vetted Decodable Text List IMSE (Institute for Multi-Sensory Education)’s Digital Resources Active View of Reading Where to Find Hooked on Comics: Website: https://www.hookedoncomics.org/ Instagram: @Hooked.On.Comics TikTok: @HookedOnComics Teachers Pay Teachers Store: Hooked on Comics Email: phonicscomics@gmail.com Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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24. Morphology Roundtable with Sarah Paul, Savannah Campbell, and Michelle Sullivan 53:45

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In this episode of the Literacy in Color podcast, Michelle Sullivan, Sarah Paul, and Savannah Campbell join forces for a morphology roundtable discussion! They’re answering some of your most pressing morphology questions from social media: Why does teaching morphology matter? When should we begin teaching morphology, and how can it be introduced to younger learners in developmentally appropriate ways? What is a Word Matrix? What are Word Sums? Is there a specific scope and sequence we should follow? Do you use the word “morpheme” with your students? What might a morphology lesson look like in action? Step-by-step? They not only share practical strategies & suggestions for teaching morphology, but they also provide recommended resources to help you deepen your knowledge about morphology as well. If you enjoyed this conversation, check out Michelle, Sarah & Savannah at the upcoming Unlocking SOR Conference this March 2025! Resources Mentioned: Savannah’s Book Recommendation: Everything You Want to Know & Exactly Where to Find It by William Van Cleave Sarah’s Book Recommendation: Beneath the Surface of Words: What English Spelling Reveals and Why It Matters By Sue Hegland Michelle’s Book Recommendation: Teaching How the Written Word Works By Peter Bowers Sarah’s Morphology Blog: Understanding Morphology: Part 1 Sarah’s Morphology Blog: Teaching Morphology to Beginning Readers Savannah’s Morphology Resource: Morphology Interactive Notebooks Bundle Michelle’s Morphology Resource: Greek and Latin Root of the Week Posters BUNDLE Michelle’s IG Posts - Breaking Down the Made-Up Words in Wicked ( Part 1 & Part 2 ) Morphology Meta-Analysis: “The effects of morphological instruction on literacy skills: A systematic review of the literature” - Bowers, Kirby, & Deacon (2010) *Lives behind a paywall. 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! Other Helpful Resources: Michelle’s FREE Word Matrix & Word Sums Template Michelle’s Latin Word Matrices Bundle Michelle’s MEGA Morphology Growing Bundle Michelle’s FREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know Word Works Kingston Website about Structured Word Inquiry (Pete Bowers) FREE: Morphology Matters by William Van Cleave Etymonline Neil Ramsden FREE Mini Matrix-Maker Connect with Sarah Paul: Website Instagram TPT Store Connect with Savannah Campbell: Podcast: Creating Readers with Savannah Campbell Website Instagram TPT Store Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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23. Why is Reading Fluency Important? with Dr. Heather Kenny from Unleashed Innovation 32:54

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Why is reading fluency important? Dr. Heather Kenny from Unleashed Innovation joins me to unpack the critical role of fluency in reading development. Together, we explore why fluency is often described as the bridge between word recognition and language comprehension, discuss research-backed insights, and share actionable strategies to address fluency challenges. Dr. Kenny’s expertise provides clarity on how fluency integrates accuracy, rate, and prosody to drive skilled reading, making this a must-listen episode for all educators. Key Takeaways: Fluency as a Bridge Components of Fluency Challenges of Fluency Identifying Fluency Struggles Actionable Fluency Strategies Resources Mentioned: Sounder and Friends App Sounder and Friends on YouTube Really Great Reading’s Heart Word Method Top 10 Tips Webinar: A practical webinar for K-2 teachers focused on improving fluency outcomes. FREE Fluency Resource Pack Where to Find Dr. Heather Kenny: Website: Unleashed Innovation Unleashed Innovation: Instagram | Facebook Sounder and Friends: Instagram | Facebook Email: hkenny@unleashed-innovation.com Upcoming Webinar: Top 10 Tips for Building Fluency in Grades K-2 This episode is packed with actionable insights and strategies for addressing fluency challenges in the classroom. Tune in to learn how to support your students in becoming skilled, fluent readers! Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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22. What is Reading Fluency? with Jessica Farmer from Farmer Loves Phonics 28:22

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What is reading fluency? Jessica Farmer, a literacy advocate and professional learning facilitator, joins me to discuss the essential role of fluency in reading development. Together, we explore what fluency truly means, why it’s much more than speed, and how teachers can assess and improve fluency in their classrooms. Packed with practical strategies, research-based insights, actionable tips, AND A FREEBIE, this episode is your go-to guide for understanding fluency in the Science of Reading framework. Key Takeaways: Fluency Defined Components of Fluency ORF (Oral Reading Fluency) Practical Fluency Strategies Resources Mentioned: Jan Hasbrouck and Gerald Tyndall’s National Norms for Oral Reading Fluency (ORF): Reading Rockets Dr. Jan Hasbrouck’s Fluency Webinar with The Reading League Emily Hanford’s Article: "At a Loss for Words" Top 10 Tips Webinar: A practical webinar for K-2 teachers focused on improving fluency outcomes. FREE Fluency Resource Pack Where to Find Jessica Farmer: Website: Farmer Loves Phonics Instagram: @FarmerLovesPhonics Facebook: @FarmerLovesPhonics TikTok : @FarmerLovesPhonics YouTube: @FarmerLovesPhonics TPT Store: Farmer Loves Phonics Email: Jessica@farmerlovesphonics.com Upcoming Webinar: Top 10 Tips for Building Fluency in Grades K-2 This episode is perfect for educators who want to better understand fluency and how to implement research-based strategies to support student success. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiration! Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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21. When Reading Skills Aren't Clicking with Naomi O'Brien 55:04

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What do you do when reading skills aren’t clicking for your students? Join me and the incredible Naomi O’Brien from Read Like a Rockstar Teaching as we tackle this critical question. Naomi shares her expertise in foundational skills in a structured literacy setting to help educators shift their instruction and support every reader. Whether you’re struggling to meet the needs of diverse learners or looking to deepen your understanding of evidence-based methods, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration. Naomi’s practical tips and inspiring insights will leave you feeling empowered to make a difference in your classroom to make sure the learning sticks! Key Takeaways: Why Reading Skills Don’t Stick: Naomi explains how faulty methods like memorization can hinder progress and why explicit, systematic phonics instruction is essential for long-term success. The Importance of Trusting the Process: Learn why building foundational skills may feel slow initially but creates lasting reading proficiency. Engaging Strategies for Phonological Awareness and Phonics: Naomi shares fun, interactive methods to boost student engagement and build essential reading skills. How to Address Gaps: Tips for identifying and filling in missing pieces for struggling readers, even if they’re starting behind. 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! Resources Mentioned: Naomi O’Brien’s Membership: Systematic Phonics & Phonological Awareness Phonological Awareness Resources & Information on Naomi’s Website: https://readlikearockstarteaching.com/phonological-awareness/ "The Truth About Reading" Documentary: https://www.johncorcoranfoundation.org/watch Stanislas Dehaene’s Research: How the Brain Learns to Read on YouTube Stanislas Dehaene’s Book: Reading in the Brain Naomi’s Book: You’ll Never Guess What I’m Thinking About Naomi’s Book: You’ll Never Guess What I’m Saying Jan Hasbrouck Oral Reading Fluency Norms Where to Find Naomi O’Brien: Instagram: @readlikearockstarteaching Website: https://readlikearockstarteaching.com/ Email: readlikearockstarteaching@gmail.com Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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20. What to Do With All Those Leveled Books in a SoR Classroom 14:05

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If you’ve been shifting to a Science of Reading approach, you might be wondering: What do I do with all the leveled texts in my classroom library? Should I toss them? Let them collect dust? Fear not—this episode is here to help! Today, we explore 6 practical and intentional ways to repurpose your leveled readers so they align with structured literacy principles. These tips will help you use those books in meaningful ways while staying grounded in the Science of Reading research. Key Takeaways: Reorganize for Knowledge Building Use Books as Mentor Texts Cover the Words for Storytelling Inspire Writing in Small Groups Teach Grammar & Syntax with Mentor Sentences Tap into Vocabulary-Building Opportunities Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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19. Oral Language & Reading with Elizabeth Doherty, The Reading SLP 40:03

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Elizabeth Doherty, known as The Reading SLP, joins us to discuss the critical role oral language plays in reading development. As a speech-language pathologist (SLP) with extensive experience, Elizabeth shares her insights into how oral language connects to reading comprehension, the importance of addressing oral language challenges, and actionable strategies to support language development in schools and at home. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or SLP, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for supporting literacy through the lens of oral language. Key Takeaways: What is Oral Language? Signs of Oral Language Challenges The Role of SLPs in Literacy Development Strategies for Supporting Oral Language Resources Mentioned: The Critical Role of Oral Language Deficits in Reading Disorders: Reflections on Snowling and Hulme (2021) - Hugh W. Catts LENA: Conversational Turns Build Brains NELI Language Screening Tool (UK-based initiative by Dr. Margaret Snowling and Dr. Charles Hume) ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) Language Milestones Ms. Rachel Really Great Reading Vocabulary Training Speech to Print by Louisa Moats 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! Where to Find Elizabeth Doherty: Instagram: @Elizabeth_ReadingSLP Website: TheReadingSLP.com Elizabeth’s Courses: The Pre-Reading SLP Course The Reading SLP Course The Dyslexia SLP Course Multisyllabic Words Course Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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18. 5 Tips for Small Group Reading Success 10:15

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Small group reading instruction is where the magic happens! In this episode, we dive into five actionable tips to help you make the most of your small group time. Whether you're working on phonics, fluency, or comprehension, these strategies will ensure your instruction is intentional, impactful, and student-centered. Get ready to streamline your process and make a bigger difference for your readers this year! Key Takeaways: Tip 1: Prioritize Scheduling Tip 2: Follow a Consistent Structure Tip 3: Balance Teacher Talk and Student Work Tip 4: Keep Groups Short and Sweet Tip 5: Build Your Teacher Toolkit Resources Mentioned: The Colorful Literacy Toolkit Membership Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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17. From Resolutions to Results: Set your Science of Reading Goals for 2025 12:53

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Happy New Year’s Eve! As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and set intentional goals for your teaching practice. In this episode, we’ll turn your passion for the Science of Reading into actionable, achievable goals that will set you and your students up for success in the new year. Together, we’ll reflect on wins and challenges, pick a “Word of the Year” to guide us, and craft SMART goals that will help turn resolutions into results. Whether you’re new to the Science of Reading or a seasoned educator looking to grow, this episode is packed with strategies to help you make 2025 your best teaching year yet! What You’ll Learn in This Episode : Why setting goals for your Science of Reading journey matters. How to reflect on your 2024 wins and challenges to guide your focus. The importance of choosing a “Word of the Year” as your professional compass. How to craft SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to bring structure and intention to your teaching practice. A step-by-step example of creating a SMART goal tailored to expanding your teaching toolkit with Science of Reading strategies. Links & Resources : Download the FREE Canva Template to create your “Word of the Year” Vision Board as a phone background! Learn more about my upcoming course on orthographic mapping, Word Mapping Mastery ! Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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16. A Very Merry Phonological Awareness Lesson 14:38

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It's Christmas Eve! In today’s special holiday-themed episode, we’re bringing a little winter magic to phonological awareness. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or just looking for a festive and educational activity, this interactive episode is for you! Together, we’ll play with sounds and words, engaging in fun phonological awareness activities that include rhyming, blending, segmenting, and so much more—all with a cozy winter theme. While this is just for fun and not aligned with targeted phonics skills, it’s a great way to spark joy and engage in wordplay with your kids or students. Activities Included : Rhyme Production Sound Isolation (Beginning and Ending Sounds) Blending (Compound Words, Syllables, and Sounds) Segmenting (Syllables, Onset-Rime, and Individual Sounds) Substitution Sentence Segmentation Grab a cup of cocoa, play along, and enjoy a bit of winter-inspired wordplay! Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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15. Black Language & Structured Literacy with Dr. Jasmine Rogers 57:39

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In this heartfelt, powerful, and impactful episode, I am joined by Dr. Jasmine Rogers, a leading national voice in literacy instruction and a trailblazer in culturally competent teaching practices. Dr. Rogers specializes in approaches that affirm Black Language (Black English) in the classroom and has dedicated her career to revolutionizing literacy instruction by honoring every student's linguistic heritage. With nine years of classroom experience in charter and DC Public Schools, Dr. Rogers witnessed firsthand how traditional reading instruction often left Black Language-speaking students behind. Her groundbreaking research at American University’s School of Education challenges long-held misconceptions and shows that even minimal training on Black Language significantly improves teacher effectiveness. In this episode, Dr. Rogers shares insights from her research, discussing how recognizing and celebrating Black Language—rather than correcting it—is essential to honoring students' identities and supporting their academic growth. She explains how Black Language is not a dialect or slang but a fully developed linguistic system with its own phonology, morphology, and syntax, and why we must celebrate this diversity in our classrooms. We dive deep into misconceptions about Black Language, explore the difference between deficit-based and asset-based approaches, and discuss how educators can integrate culturally responsive literacy practices into their teaching - especially in the Structured Literacy classroom. Dr. Rogers introduces the concept of the "Revolutionary Love Response" as a powerful teaching move, emphasizing the importance of affirming students’ linguistic choices while still guiding them toward proficiency in generalized English. This episode is a clarion call for educators to reflect on their teaching practices, embrace linguistic diversity, and create classrooms where every student’s language and identity are celebrated. Dr. Rogers’ mission is clear: to transform literacy instruction by affirming students' linguistic heritage, and in this conversation, she equips us with the knowledge & tools to get us started. Resources Mentioned: Linguistic Justice by Dr. April Baker Bell Black Communications and Learning to Read by Terry Meier Revolutionary Love: Creating a Culturally Inclusive Classroom by Kamania Wynter-Hoyte, Eliza Braden, and Michele Meyers Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton’s Website Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton’s Podcast: Honeybee Connection Podcast by MB Dr. Dionna Latimer-Hearn’s Website Dr. Dionna Latimer-Hearn’s Podcast: The Culture We Speak 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! Where to Find Dr. Jasmine Rogers: DC Reading Clinic Website: www.jasminerogers.com LinkedIn: Jasmine Rogers Twitter/x: @drj_indc IG & Threads: @drj_indc…

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14. A Literacy Coach's Role & Responsibilities with Alison Kantor (Literacy Coaching Conversations Series - Part 7) 30:54

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We’re wrapping up this Literacy Coaching Conversations series with my good friend and colleague, Alison Kantor, a literacy coach and Orton-Gillingham trainer, to discuss the unique and impactful role of a literacy coach. Alison shares her journey from classroom teacher to literacy coach, her daily responsibilities, and her strategies for supporting teachers as they navigate the shift from Balanced Literacy to Structured Literacy. Whether you’re a new coach or a seasoned veteran, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Key Takeaways: A Day in the Life of a Literacy Coach Building Trust with Teachers Impactful Coaching Moments Resources Mentioned: Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Center for Dyslexia Studies Heggerty Phonemic Awareness Program Tools for Literacy Coaches: Google Calendar: Alison’s top recommendation for staying organized and following through on commitments. A Mobile “Tackle Box”: Filled with literacy materials like letter cards, mini whiteboards, and manipulatives to model strategies with teachers. Professional Development: Resources like blogs, podcasts, and coaching communities to stay up-to-date and continue learning. Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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13. What is Structured Literacy? 18:22

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What is Structured Literacy, exactly? Let’s take a deep dive into this research-based instructional approach rooted in the Science of Reading. We’ll unpack the guiding principles and elements of Structured Literacy, explain how it differs from Balanced Literacy, and share why it’s so effective for teaching all students—especially those with dyslexia or other reading challenges. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear understanding of how Structured Literacy sets students up for lifelong success. Key Takeaways: Structured Literacy vs. Balanced Literacy Guiding Principles of Structured Literacy: Systematic, Cumulative, Explicit, Diagnostic The Five Elements of Structured Literacy Why Structured Literacy Matters Resources Mentioned: Structured Literacy - outlined by the IDA The Ladder of Reading Infographic by Nancy Young Book: Climbing The Ladder of Reading & Writing: Meeting the Needs of ALL Learners by Nancy Young & Jan Hasbrouck LETRS Training Book: Uncovering the Logic of English by Denise Eide 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 Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom Join our Facebook Community Sign up for my Newsletter Shop on TPT: The Colorful Classroom Visit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.com Join The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership…

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12. Coaching into Foundational Skills with Merri Polhemus (Literacy Coaching Conversations Series - Part 6) 24:51

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