Welcome to Literacy Talks, a podcast from Reading Horizons, where reading momentum begins. Each episode features our trio of literacy champions: Stacy Hurst, an...
In this episode of Literacy Talks, we dive into the Structured Literacy Info Map, a powerful tool designed to align educators on the principles and practices of effective literacy instruction. Hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny explore how this visual framework supports professional development, bridges gaps between teacher knowledge and practice, and enhances reading and writing instruction. From phonemic awareness to morphology, syllable structure to orthographic conventions, our hosts break down key components of Structured Literacy and discuss practical strategies for integrating them into the classroom.Whether you're a seasoned educator or just beginning your literacy journey, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the road to literacy success.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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40:18
The Ultimate Plain Talk Recap: Our Must-Share Insights from the Conference
Join Literacy Talks hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny as they dive into their favorite moments from the 2025 Plain Talk Conference! In this special bonus episode, they reflect on what makes this conference a must-attend event, from the inspiring keynotes to the camaraderie among educators. They also break down key takeaways from their favorite sessions, highlighting powerful insights on comprehension, writing, fluency, and the science of reading. Plus, don’t miss hearing about all of the free resources shared by presenters—practical tools you can start using right away!Whether you attended Plain Talk or not, this episode will leave you energized and equipped with valuable literacy strategies.Show Notes & ResourcesChat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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47:03
Bridging the Gap: From Three Cueing to Structured Literacy
This episode invites you into an eye-opening conversation about transforming reading instruction. Host Stacy Hurst, along with co-hosts Donnell Pons and Lindsay Kemeny, sits down with literacy expert Margaret Goldberg to challenge the outdated practice of three cueing—a method that once dominated classrooms but falls short of scientific backing. Margaret shares her personal journey from the challenges of remote teaching during the pandemic to pioneering research partnerships that underscore the power of structured literacy and systematic phonics. Discover how bridging the gap between theory and classroom practice can empower educators, enhance student reading outcomes, and reshape our approach to literacy education.Tune in for a candid discussion that not only questions old methods but also lights the way for innovative, evidence-based teaching practices.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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52:39
The Urgency of Structured Literacy: Preventing Reading Failure
In this episode of Literacy Talks, we dive into the essential question: Why is Structured Literacy critical for all learners?Hosts Stacy Hurst, Donell Pons, and Lindsay Kemeny explore research-backed reasons why explicit, systematic reading instruction is the most effective way to support students—especially those who struggle. They discuss the life-changing consequences of reading failure, the importance of well-trained educators, and the role Structured Literacy plays in promoting equity in education.Tune in for an insightful, passionate conversation that reinforces why literacy is a right, not a privilege.Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
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40:25
Structured Literacy: The Answer We’ve Had All Along
For decades, we've had the research, the science, and the strategies to teach every child how to read—so why has it taken so long to put them into practice? 🤔In this must-listen episode of Literacy Talks, we welcome Dr. David Hurford, Editor-in-Chief of Perspectives on Language and Literacy, to discuss the latest issue focusing on Structured Literacy and its critical role in reading instruction.We dive into:✅ The biggest myths holding back effective reading instruction✅ Why Structured Literacy isn’t just for striving readers—it’s for EVERY reader✅ The movement pushing states and schools to finally adopt science-based reading practicesIf you’ve ever asked, Why aren’t we just teaching reading the way science tells us to?, this episode is for you. 🎧Chat about this episode in The Science of Reading Collective.Explore the Reading Horizons Discovery® Product Suite.Access past show notes.Read the transcripts.
Welcome to Literacy Talks, a podcast from Reading Horizons, where reading momentum begins. Each episode features our trio of literacy champions: Stacy Hurst, an assistant professor of reading at Southern Utah University and Chief Academic Advisor at Reading Horizons; Donell Pons, a dyslexia specialist, educator, presenter, and writer, who now works with adults with reading challenges; and Lindsay Kemeny, a dedicated elementary teacher who is a CERI-certified Structured Literacy Classroom Teacher and author of 7 Mighty Moves. Each episode is a conversation among friends with practical literacy strategies, powerful tips, and a real passion for teachers and students alike. Listen, laugh, and learn with Literacy Talks, brought to educators everywhere by Reading Horizons.