91. Why Vocabulary Changes Everything (and 3 Simple Shifts for Teachers)

Vocabulary may be just one pillar of literacy, but it’s also the thread that connects reading, writing, speaking, and thinking.In this episode, I’m breaking down why vocabulary truly changes everything when it comes to student learning – and why it deserves more intentional focus in our classrooms. I’ll also share 3 simple, high-impact shifts you can make right away to create a more language-rich environment for your students.Key TakeawaysYou can decode every word on a page, but without vocabulary, comprehension falls apart.Make Vocabulary Multisensory: Move beyond definitions and engage students’ senses (especially with images) to make meaningful connectionsPrioritize Expressive Understanding: Use sentence stems and structured prompts to push students to think with words, not just repeat them.Build Word Networks: Help students connect words through associations, morphology, and shades of meaning to deepen understanding and retention.Join us at the Science of Reading Mini-Con this June!Connect 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 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-colorSOR Summer Book StudyJoin us: https://colorful-classroom.mykajabi.com/sor-summer-book-study-2026