Welcome to Literacy Talks, a podcast from Reading Horizons, where reading momentum begins. Each episode features our trio of literacy champions: Stacy Hurst, an...
Structured Literacy Unpacked: Insights from IDA’s Landmark Issue
This season opener of Literacy Talks dives into the foundational elements of structured literacy, inspired by the International Dyslexia Association's 75th Anniversary issue of Perspectives on Language and Literacy. Hosts Stacy Hurst, Lindsay Kemeny, and Donell Pons explore the insights of Barbara Wilson and Jessica Hammond on how structured literacy, grounded in the science of reading, is transforming classrooms. Whether you’re new to the concept or a seasoned educator, join us for an engaging discussion designed to inspire and equip you with tools to champion effective literacy instruction.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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26:10
Bright Beginnings: Shaping the Next Generation of Literacy Champions
This bonus episode of Literacy Talks recaps the Bright Beginnings pre-service teacher conference. Hosted by Stacy Hurst and featuring insights from a panel of esteemed educators, Lori Anderson, Stephanie Edgren, Dr. Vicki Piquette, and Papae Wymore, the episode delves into the key sessions and takeaways from the conference. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on empowering pre-service teachers with the latest research and best practices in literacy instruction, from foundational skills to engaging and motivating learners. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit of the science of reading community and the passion shared by the committee in equipping the next generation of literacy champions.SHOW NOTESResources:Bright Beginnings Session Recordings LinksThe Reading LeagueLiteracy Leaders:Lori AndersonFacebook - Lori Raquel AndersonStephanie EdgrenX - @StephanieEdgrenFacebook - Stephanie Grayson EdgrenInstagram - @mrs.edgrenLinkedIn - Stephanie EdgrenBluesky - @edgrens.bsky.socialDr. Vicki PiquetteFacebook - Vicki PiquettePapae WymoreX - @PapaeWymoreDr. Mitchell BrookinsDr. Holly LaneDr. Devin KearnsDr. Anita ArcherBecky PalloneChat 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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1:00:20
Addressing Some Misunderstandings of the Science of Reading
In our Season 6 finale, the hosts dive deep into an article from The Reading League Journal that addresses common misunderstandings about the science of reading. They explore a range of topics, including the role of comprehension, the 95% claim, the debate between speech-to-print and print-to-speech, the necessity of learning spelling and syllable division rules, and the use of nonsense words in phonics instruction. Through insightful discussions and real-world examples, the hosts help clarify misconceptions and provide a nuanced understanding of the science of reading. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities and separate fact from fiction when it comes to effective reading instruction.SHOW NOTESLiteracy Leaders:Sharon VaughnNathan ClemensLouisa MoatsDevin KearnsResources:The Reading League JournalNarrowing the Third-Grade Reading GapChat 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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53:38
Part Two: Exploring Frustrations with Constructive Discussions
This episode of Literacy Talks focuses on the hosts' shared pet peeves related to literacy education. Donell expresses frustration with the persistent challenges around dyslexia awareness and support in schools. Stacy sometimes gets frustrated with the "checklist mentality" in teaching, where some pre-service teachers struggle to move beyond rigid requirements. Lindsay discusses her concerns about overcorrection in teaching high-frequency words and creating simplistic "black and white" lists categorizing educational practices. The hosts emphasize the importance of nuance, context, and supporting teachers with adequate time and resources to implement evidence-based literacy instruction effectively.SHOW NOTESLiteracy Leaders:Katie Pace MilesDanielle ColenbranderChat 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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39:04
Dyslexia Talks: Empowering Students with Mentorship and Community Support
This episode provides a powerful and inspiring look into the work of the Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation, which supports high school and college students with dyslexia who wish to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Co-founder Dr. Barbara Wirostko Morelli shares her personal story of navigating the challenges of dyslexia with her own son, Joseph, and the motivation behind creating the foundation in his memory. Listeners hear from scholarship recipient Amy Mabile and mentor Jake Sussman, who offer firsthand accounts of the life-changing impact of the foundation's mentorship, community support, and financial assistance. The episode delves into the unique obstacles students with dyslexia face in the education system, the importance of early intervention and proper documentation, and the power of resilience, self-advocacy, and finding one's voice to overcome adversity and achieve academic and personal success.This is the final installment of the Literacy Talks miniseries Dyslexia Talks, hosted by Donell Pons.SHOW NOTESLiteracy Leaders:Barbara Wirostko (Morelli)Jake SussmanResources:Joseph James Morelli Legacy FoundationDyslexia: Tapping into the potential | Barbara Wirostko (Morelli), MD | TEDxBozemanMorelli Foundation Scholarship ProgramThe Forgotten Child: A Poem Dedicated to the neurodiverseSuperpower MentorsChat 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.
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