SMARTER Literacy

Editing often gets treated like the quick final step in writing, but in reality, it’s where the real work begins. In this episode, we unpack why students rush through editing, what they actually need to become stronger writers, and how teachers can make editing meaningful instead of overwhelming. We share practical strategies that help students slow down, build stamina, and learn how to truly refine their writing. From shifting students’ mindsets about the writing process to using simple color-coding systems and sentence-level editing routines, this conversation focuses on making editing visible, manageable, and even enjoyable. 💡 Learn more about writing routines in the Spotlight PD: Long Form Writing Routineshttps://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/longformwriting Then, subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s episode, where the conversation shifts to fluency and why it’s about much more than reading faster.

In this episode, we explore why students often struggle with longer-form writing like paragraphs and essays, and how those struggles usually show up as either “stream of consciousness” writing or rigid, rubric-driven writing. We break down why both challenges often come from the same root problem: students haven’t learned a clear planning process for writing. You’ll hear practical strategies for teaching a simple three-step routine, brainstorming, drafting, and editing, that helps students balance creativity with structure and become more confident, independent writers. 👉 Apply what you learned today with the free SMARTER Literacy Guide. Get it now at smarterintervention.com/guide 🍎 Learn more about Long Form Writing Routineshttps://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/longformwriting

In this episode, we explore why teaching spelling patterns and grammar rules alone does not always translate into stronger student writing. We discuss how simple sentence routines can help students move from memorizing rules to actually thinking through and constructing their own sentences independently. You’ll hear practical strategies for guiding students through sentence structure, editing, and spelling decisions so they can build confidence and ownership as writers. 👉 Learn more about Sentence and Spelling Routines.https://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/sentences-and-spelling

In this episode, we tackle one of the most common challenges in literacy instruction: teaching reading comprehension effectively. We explore why isolated, skill-by-skill approaches (like spending a week on the main idea before moving on to inferences) often fail to stick with students. Instead, we should be building consistent comprehension routines. You'll walk away with a new way of thinking about comprehension instruction, including our "three across and five deep" reading routine that helps students internalize skills and apply them independently. 👉 You can get this FREE comprehension routine, and more, when you visit smarterintervention.com/guide.

In this episode, we take a closer look at how structured literacy principles can be applied flexibly to meet real classroom needs. We discuss what it means to thoughtfully bridge gaps for students who are close to grade-level expectations and how intentional routines can support skill development without overwhelming teachers or learners. 👉 If you’re looking for practical, research-based literacy routines you can use right away, visit smarterintervention.com/guide to get started.

Many students fall into the “messy middle” of literacy, needing more support than core instruction but not a full intensive intervention. In this episode, we walk through what a bridge intervention actually looks like, breaking down how structured literacy routines can be applied to real classroom content like science and social studies texts. You’ll hear how Fast 5 Literacy Lessons bring phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and writing together in a practical, repeatable way, and how you can try one for free to see it in action. 🆓 Try a Fast 5 Lesson for FREE, >>Here<<. 👉 Learn more about the Fast 5 Lesson Library with a wide range of pre-made lessons for students K-6+.  

Many educators feel overwhelmed trying to support students who don’t clearly fit into traditional literacy intervention models. In this episode, we explore the “messy middle,” where structured literacy meets professional judgment, and why evidence-based instruction is both a science and an art.  ‍🎧 You’ll hear how a flexible bridging approach can help students who aren't quite ready for classroom expectations, but who no longer require intensive support. 🧑‍💻 To learn more about how to apply bridged intervention, check out the Fast 5 Literacy Lessons.

We break down how to use a simple five-step executive functioning framework with students to support focus, regulation, and task completion. You’ll learn practical ways to set clear goals, build attention stamina, create manageable plans, and reflect with students so learning feels calmer, more predictable, and more effective. 📚 Grab the FREE 5-Step Executive Functioning Routine ✨ Continue learning about executive functioning with our 1-hour on-demand training: Supporting Executive Functioning Through the Grade Levels

In this episode, we share a reflective approach to starting the new year (or at any time of the year!) using an executive functioning framework designed to create calm, clarity, and alignment. Instead of pushing harder, focus on setting intentions, regulating burnout, focusing your attention, and planning sustainably so you can show up with more energy and impact for your students and yourself. Grab the PDF with the step-by-step EF process discussed in this episode: 🎉 smarterintervention.com/reset - to get the PDF download to walk through the EF process discussed in this episode

In this episode, we share simple, no-prep ways to bring games into your literacy lessons using simple materials like a whiteboard, a die, or a word list. Learn how to make reading practice more engaging, boost motivation, and hit multiple literacy skills, all without adding to your workload. Check out the games and additional training mentioned in this episode: 🎉 >>Literacy games<< that we love, including the War Games and Crazy Short Vowel mentioned in the show. 🔦 The Literacy Game Plan Spotlight On-Demand PD. Learn how to use games to target specific reading and language skills, while keeping students engaged. See how just one game can be adapted to meet different goals and walk away with ready-to-use templates and ideas for game-based activities.

In this episode, we share why games aren’t just for fun. They’re one of the most effective ways to teach, review, and differentiate literacy skills. Learn how to use games strategically within your lessons to boost engagement, build confidence, and make reading instruction more enjoyable for students and teachers alike. 💡Learn more about using games in your literacy instruction in the 5CCL Spotlight Training: The Literacy Game Plan: Using Games to Teach, Engage, and Differentiatehttps://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/game-plan  

In this episode, we tackle one of the toughest moments in intervention: when you’ve been faithfully tracking progress, but the data just isn’t budging. We share how to recognize whether it’s a true trend or just an off day, and how to dig deeper when scores consistently stall. You’ll learn how to use the Simple View of Reading to diagnose whether the root issue is word recognition, language comprehension, or both, and practical strategies for adjusting instruction without losing momentum. We also discuss the importance of setting realistic, measurable goals and celebrating small wins to keep students motivated. Subscribe for more episodes, share this one with a colleague, and leave a rating or review—it helps other educators find the show!  ❇️ Resources mentioned in the show: Free Data Tracking Printable Progress Monitoring Made Simple Spotlight Traininghttps://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/progress-monitoring-made-simple

In this episode of the Smarter Literacy Podcast, we dive into progress monitoring - what it really is, why it matters, and how to make it part of everyday lessons without losing instructional time. We share practical strategies for tracking growth with simple tools like word lists and fluency passages, tips for writing clear goals, and ways to build data collection into your lesson flow. You’ll also hear common mistakes to avoid, from inconsistent tracking to waiting too long to review data, and how to use progress monitoring as a powerful guide for instruction. Subscribe for more strategies, share this episode with a colleague, and leave a rating or review to help others find the show! ❇️ Resources mentioned in the show: Free Data Tracking Printable Progress Monitoring Made Simple Spotlight Traininghttps://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/progress-monitoring-made-simple

In this episode of the Smarter Literacy Podcast, we break down the difference between accommodations and modifications, two terms often misunderstood in education. They discuss why these supports matter, how to choose the right ones, and what changes when they’re implemented well. You’ll hear practical examples tied to student needs, strategies for making supports part of everyday classroom routines, and clarity on why accommodations are not “cheating” but essential tools for equity and access. ✨Resources & Links: 📄 FREE Printable Accommodations & Modifications Guide 💡To continue your learning, check out the Spotlight PD: What Dyslexia Really Looks Like

We kick off Dyslexia Awareness Month by breaking down what dyslexia is and clearing up the most common myths. They share how it shows up across grade levels, what signs teachers can watch for, and practical strategies and accommodations that help students thrive. ➡️ Grab the Dyslexia Symptoms Checklist mentioned in the podcast: https://smarterintervention.com/blog-highlights/dyslexia-symptoms-checklist

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes to discuss the standardized assessments they rely on with students, from the WIAT and CTOP to the TOWRE and GORT. They share what each tool reveals about literacy skills, their strengths (and shortcomings), and how these assessments connect to the literacy processing triangle. You’ll also hear why no single test is enough, and how combining measures with curriculum-based assessments gives the clearest picture of student needs. 👉 Check out the 5CCL Learning Lab to continue your learning!

Feeling overwhelmed by student data? In this episode, we walk through a simple 7-step process to move from numbers on a page to meaningful instructional decisions. You’ll learn how to: Use screeners as a starting point Add context with quick observations Identify whether challenges stem from word recognition or comprehension Pinpoint specific skill gaps Summarize data into a clear student story Group students and set measurable goals Monitor progress to keep instruction responsive By the end, you’ll have a roadmap for turning data into action that truly supports student growth. 👉 Want to go deeper? Explore our From Data to Decisions Spotlight PD, >>Here<<.https://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/literacy-needs-screener

In this episode of the Smarter Literacy Podcast, we break down how to deliver effective literacy intervention for secondary students, a topic that rarely gets the attention it deserves. Key Takeaways: Learn three instructional pathways Discover how to make lessons age-appropriate and engaging Get practical ideas for flexible lesson pacing and diagnostic instruction 🖥️ Continue learning with our FREE on-demand training: Delivering Effective Secondary Literacy Intervention: The 5-Step Framework for Grades 6–12 👉 Check out the 5CCL Learning Lab to continue your learning!

In this episode, we break down the exact structure of a structured literacy lesson at the elementary level. If you’ve ever stared at a blank lesson plan wondering where to start, this episode gives you a step-by-step framework to follow. Key Takeaways: Understand the five key components of a structured literacy lesson Learn how to balance word recognition and language comprehension instruction Discover practical ways to make instruction engaging and interactive Explore how reciprocal writing activities reinforce reading skills and support vocabulary growth Get tips on checking for understanding and collecting data within your lesson flow Hear ideas for pacing and lesson planning that work in real classrooms Whether you’re delivering these lessons in one block or across multiple sessions, this structure will help simplify your planning while keeping lessons consistent, actionable, and fun for students. 👉 Grab our free Lesson Planning Guides and check out the 5CCL Learning Lab to continue your learning!

In this episode of the Smarter Literacy Podcast, we discuss the process of delivering effective Tier Three literacy instruction without the overwhelm. Whether you're a special educator managing IEP goals or a private practitioner working one-on-one, this conversation will help you move from uncertainty to clarity. Key Takeaways: Understand the purpose and goals of Tier Three instruction Learn how to use assessment data (like the WIAT-4) to identify student needs Discover how to determine whether a student needs support in word recognition or language comprehension Get tips for setting up an actionable instructional plan based on your schedule  👉 Explore related professional development training in the 5CCL Learning Lab

In this episode of the SMARTER Literacy Podcast, we dive into the sometimes chaotic world of Tier 2 literacy instruction. If you're working with limited time and diverse student needs, this conversation offers a practical approach to designing a simple, systematic, and effective scope and sequence. Whether you're operating in a push-in or pull-out model, you'll learn how to make the most of every instructional minute while staying grounded in the Science of Reading. Learn more about the 5CCL Learning Lab mentioned in the show: 5CCL Learning Lab ➡️ https://smarterintervention.com/learninglab 📣 Subscribe to the Smarter Literacy Podcast for more insights and actionable strategies to simplify effective literacy instruction. ❤️ Found this helpful? Leave a review or share it with a colleague who's teaching in tier 2!

In this episode of the SMARTER Literacy Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest challenges in education: making the science of reading actually work in Tier 1 instruction. Whether you're a classroom teacher or a literacy leader, this episode will help you build a Tier 1 block that’s not only effective but sustainable. You’ll walk away with a clear roadmap for balancing whole group instruction, small group differentiation, and meaningful independent practice without the overwhelm. Learn more about the training opportunities mentioned in the show: 5CCL Learning Lab ➡️ https://smarterintervention.com/learninglab 📣 Subscribe to the Smarter Literacy Podcast for more insights and actionable strategies to simplify effective literacy instruction. ❤️ Found this helpful? Leave a review or share it with a colleague who's teaching in tier 1!

Are you teaching Tier 1, 2, or 3 instruction — or some blend of all three? In this episode, we break down what the tiers of literacy instruction really mean and why it’s essential to align your strategies with the setting and support your students are receiving. Whether you’re in a classroom, intervention setting, special education, or private practice, this episode gives you clarity on how to make structured literacy work in your context, without burning out. Learn more about the training opportunities mentioned in the show: 5CCL Learning Lab ➡️ https://smarterintervention.com/learninglab 📣 Subscribe to the Smarter Literacy Podcast for more insights and actionable strategies to simplify effective literacy instruction. ❤️ Found this helpful? Leave a review or share it with a colleague who's navigating literacy across tiers!

In this episode, we get real about what it’s like to start in literacy intervention without having to know EVERYTHING about literacy education. Mikayla shares her journey of jumping in, learning on the go, and discovering how to adapt instruction to meet students’ individual needs. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, underprepared, or unsure where to start, this conversation is for you. Resources & Links:🎓 Sadly, the 2025 Summit is in the past, but you can find more professional development options here: https://smarterintervention.com/training

In this episode, we share the story behind the creation of the SMARTER Intervention Summit. If you've ever walked away from professional development feeling overwhelmed and unsupported, you're not alone. The team dives into why traditional PD often falls short—and how the Summit was intentionally designed to offer educators something different: real strategies, authentic community, and an action plan that reignites your purpose. Resources & Links: 🎓 Sadly, the 2025 Summit is in the past, but you can find more professional development options here: https://smarterintervention.com/training

What's one of the best ways to keep your kids engaged and learning over the summer? In this bonus episode, we discuss book clubs! Whether you're an educator looking for summer teaching strategies or a parent aiming to keep your child's mind active, this episode offers valuable tips and insights to make your book club a success - whether over the summer or any time of year! 📖 Use the links below to learn more about the resources mentioned in the bonus episode: >>On-Demand Training for How to Use Book Clubs to Engage Your Students<< >>Blogs about book clubs and summer groups<< >>Our YouTube video playlist for using book clubs<< >>Done-for-you Book Clubs you can use with your students<<

Join us as we explore building a literacy business and discuss Ascend's origin story. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established educator looking to expand your impact, this episode offers valuable lessons and encouragement for your journey. From the initial spark of wanting more autonomy and creativity to making the leap to starting a business, hear firsthand how trust and hard work can transform your dream into reality. You can learn more by joining us for the free workshop mentioned in the show: 🎉  >>How to Start a Literacy-Based Business<<

In Episode 3, we discussed the importance of language comprehension instruction as part of the literacy intervention process. Today, we wanted to share our vocabulary framework to help you incorporate vocabulary instruction in a fun and engaging way for your students. By the end of this bonus episode, you will be ready to try out the vocabulary framework with your students. You can download the free Vocabulary Framework to use with your students, >>Here<<. To continue learning about Vocabulary Instruction, check out our on-demand vocabulary training: https://smarterintervention.com/ondemand-pd/vocabulary

There are many misconceptions about whether or not you can teach comprehension explicitly. Many of us have been told that the only way to teach comprehension is to build background knowledge and/or through strategies like rote memorization, or vocabulary flashcards. In this episode of SMARTER Literacy, we discuss how You CAN teach comprehension strategies to your students! We will be going over the misconception that you can’t teach comprehension explicitly and then look at strategies and tools that will help you when teaching comprehension to your students. Check out the following resources mentioned in this episode: >>Guided Comprehension Folder<< >> Delivering SMARTER Intervention Program<< >>5CCL Learning Lab<<

In Episode 2, we discussed the importance of word recognition and decoding instruction across the grade levels as part of the literacy intervention process. Today, we share a quick tip to help you incorporate more of that word recognition instruction in a fun and engaging way for your students. By the end of this episode, we hope you will be willing to try out a spicy sound drill with your students. Check out the Phonogram Sound Deck mentioned in this bonus episode, here: https://smarterinterventionshop.com/products/phonogram-sound-deck

One of the challenges was managing the information overload in order to familiarize ourselves with research-based literacy instruction. Today, we'll break down the research to make it a bit more manageable. This insightful discussion sheds light on the crucial aspects often overlooked in literacy instruction, such as the importance of phonics, the role of language comprehension and vocabulary, executive functioning, and the necessity of tailoring instruction to meet individual student needs. Whether you're an educator seeking to enrich your teaching methods or a parent aiming to support your child's literacy journey, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable strategies. Dive into the exploration of how to effectively address decoding, comprehension, vocabulary, and executive functioning in literacy education. Check out the following resources mentioned in this episode: >>Comprehensive Rules Guide<< >> Delivering SMARTER Intervention Program<< >>5CCL Learning Lab<<

In Episode 1, we introduced the 4 phases of literacy instruction - familiarize, systematize, optimize, and generalize. Today's bonus episode includes a quick tip that will help support the Familiarize phase of the journey - which, as we discussed in Episode 1, is the first step of literacy instruction and sometimes the most overwhelming. By the end of this bonus episode, we want you to feel confident trying out this quick and easy-to-implement strategy. We will also give you access to a freebie that you can download and use at any point in your literacy journey. Download the free Literacy Processing Triangle to use with your students, >>Here<<.

What's the best way to overcome the challenges of teaching literacy? Discover the insights and strategies from educators who have navigated the complexities of the literacy journey. This podcast explores the significant challenges educators face, from understanding how students learn to adapting curricula to meet diverse needs. Learn about the importance of a structured curriculum, the power of collaboration among educators, effective use of time, and the phases of literacy development. Hear firsthand how strategic planning and continuous reflection can lead to more effective literacy teaching, ensuring every moment spent with students is directed towards meaningful educational outcomes. Whether you're an educator seeking to enhance your teaching practices or someone interested in the intricacies of literacy education, this podcast offers valuable perspectives grounded in real-world experience. Join us as we delve into the essential components of successful literacy education, emphasizing adaptability, collaboration, and strategic planning. Unlock the potential of every student by understanding and implementing these critical strategies. To learn more about what we discussed in this episode, visit: https://smarterintervention.com/free-resources

Introducing the SMARTER Literacy Podcast by SMARTER Intervention Join hosts Lindsey Buck and Corey Pollard as they explore transformative strategies and insights needed to enhance your teaching approach. Each episode will be packed with actionable advice, from implementing research-based literacy instruction to tailoring your approach to meet the diverse needs of your students. We will also dive into the importance of understanding the research behind literacy instruction, creating effective systems, integrating literacy across all content areas, and meeting the diverse needs of your students. Whether you're looking to support students who need additional literacy help or you're an educator with a passion for literacy, this podcast will offer the knowledge, strategies, and inspiration you need to make a real impact. Join us as we explore these topics and more, equipping you with the tools to make a meaningful difference in your students' lives. Your journey to SMARTER literacy begins here. Stay tuned for future episodes by following the show, www.smarterintervention.com/podcast. Learn more about SMARTER Intervention by visiting www.smarterintervention.com