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Content Connections: The Secret Weapon for Boosting Reading Comprehension and Test Scores
Content Connections is a series of high-interest, non-fiction articles paired with targeted questions and mini-lessons that focus on reading strategies, vocabulary building, and test-taking skills. From Drones to Pop Music to Athletic Training, the articles and questions cover a wide range of topics that spark curiosity and ignite a passion for learning. Read more
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Clarity for Learning: A Reading Interventionist’s Secret Weapon (and a Free Emoji Rubric)
Last year, I had a group of struggling readers who were convinced they were just “bad at reading.” No matter how many phonics drills or comprehension strategies I guided them through, their confidence (and scores) remained stagnant. And, of course, that impacted their motivation and effort. Read more
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Beyond the Textbook: Creative Ways to Cultivate a Love of Reading in Teens
Reading isn’t just about acing tests or fulfilling academic requirements. It’s a gateway to new worlds, a way to develop empathy, and a powerful tool for personal growth. Teens who read regularly tend to have stronger vocabulary, writing skills, and critical thinking abilities. Read more
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Middle Schoolers: Why They’re the Best (and Most Hilarious) Humans on Earth
Middle school – it’s a phase of life often met with groans, eye rolls, and maybe a little trepidation. But as a middle grades teacher and a parent of three teenagers, I’m here to tell you that middle schoolers are an absolute treasure. They’re a delightful mix of awkwardness, brilliance, and unfiltered honesty that will… Read more
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Cracking the Code of Multisyllabic Words: A Reading Intervention Approach for Older Students
Reading intervention is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Older struggling readers benefit from a multifaceted approach that addresses all areas of reading, including fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. By incorporating engaging texts, differentiated instruction, and ongoing support, we can empower these students to become confident and capable readers. Read more
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Unlocking Potential: Practical Tools and Resources for Explicit Skills Instruction with Older Struggling Readers
As a reading teacher with diverse experience, I’ve seen the transformative power of explicit skills instruction for older elementary students struggling with reading. The Science of Reading, backed by research, emphasizes explicit, systematic instruction in foundational reading skills. This approach breaks down complex skills, provides clear modeling and ample practice opportunities, leading to real-life transformations… Read more
Teen Foundations: Foundational Skills for Older Students 