85. How to Use Decodable Books (and When to Move Beyond Them) with Elise Lovejoy, Express Readers

In this episode, Elise Lovejoy tackles one of the most important topics in early literacy instruction: how to use decodable books effectively – and how to thoughtfully bridge students from controlled text into authentic reading.Elise explains why decodable texts are such a critical tool for early reading development. She also, though, emphasizes an important truth: decodables are not the entire literacy experience; they are one piece of a larger instructional puzzle.In this episode, you’ll hear Elise discuss practical ways teachers can maximize decodable books for phonics practice, build comprehension within decodable texts, and scaffold students toward more complex and authentic reading experiences.You’ll also gather actionable routines teachers can use during small-group instruction, how to help students develop flexibility when encountering unfamiliar spellings, and the signals that students may be ready to move beyond tightly controlled text.Key Takeaways:Why decodable texts are essential for practicing newly taught phonics skillsThe difference between using decodables intentionally vs. using them like leveled readersWhy comprehension should still be addressed within decodable textsPractical small-group routines for using decodable books effectivelyHow to help students develop flexibility with spelling and pronunciationSigns that students are ready to move beyond tightly controlled textWhy teachers should use decodable texts and authentic texts side-by-sideResources Mentioned:The Teachers TableLyn Stone’s Book: Foundations for LifeConnect with Elise Lovejoy of Express Readers:Website: Express ReadersInstagram: @expressreadersLinkedIn: Express ReadersFacebook: Express Readers Inc.Thank you to Reading.com for supporting the production of this episode.Visit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today.Instagram: @_readingcomYouTube: ReadingComFacebook: Reading.comPinterest: Reading_comConnect with Michelle:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit MembershipWant to Support the Podcast?Make a Donation to Support ProductionInterested in Learning More about Morphology?Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos LiveMentioned in this episode:Reading.comVisit reading.com/color for 60% off the annual plan today!SOR Summer Book StudyJoin us: https://colorful-classroom.mykajabi.com/sor-summer-book-study-2026Reading Science AcademyGet your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color