On the Blog

Helping Elementary Students Understand the Difference Between Main Idea and Theme
Teaching main idea and theme can challenge students, as these concepts are tricky to grasp. Honestly, adults sometimes struggle with

Teaching Main Idea: Visual Tools and Tips for Elementary Reading Success
Helping students determine the main idea in nonfiction texts can feel like a daunting task, but with the right tools

10 Great Read Alouds to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
As we approach Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year, I wanted to share a list of books that make

How Strong Reading Comprehension Skills Shape Academic and Life Success for Students
It’s time for the final part of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss

What is Reading Comprehension? A Guide for Elementary Teachers
It’s time for part nine of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss what

Why Vocabulary Instruction Matters for Elementary Students
It’s time for part eight of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss what

What Should Vocabulary Instruction Include? A Teacher’s Guide to Building Strong Readers
It’s time for part seven of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss what

The Importance of Fluency in Reading: How It Helps Students Succeed
It’s time for part six of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss what

What is Reading Fluency? A Guide for Elementary Teachers
It’s Time for Part Five of My Ten-Part Series on the Components of Reading! In this series, I discuss what

Why Phonics is Essential for Building Confident, Fluent Readers
It’s time for part four of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I discuss what

Phonics 101: A Teacher’s Guide to the Basics of Early Reading Instruction
It’s time for part three of my ten-part series on the components of reading! In this series, I talk about

Standards-Aligned Holiday Fun: History of Gingerbread Houses Scavenger Hunts for Elementary Classrooms
Each year as the holiday season approaches, excitement in the classroom seems to build daily. At the end of every