For decades, schools have relied on leveled readers to teach kids how to read—but what if they’ve been setting students up to guess instead of actually read? In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between leveled readers and decodable books, and why one approach is backed by science while the other reinforces bad reading habits.

We’ll explore what makes decodable books so powerful, how they align with phonics instruction, and when to transition students to authentic texts. If your school still pushes leveled readers, I’ll also share practical ways to advocate for change (with data to back you up!).

In this episode, I'll dive into...

• Why leveled readers encourage guessing instead of decoding.
• How decodable books strengthen phonics and spelling skills.
• When (and how) to transition students from decodable books to authentic texts.
• Actionable steps to advocate for research-based reading instruction in your school.

Show Links

Nonfiction decodable books: Penguins
Decodable books
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Season 1 of The Science of Reading Formula podcast was all about giving K-2 teachers practical, no-fluff strategies grounded in research. Whether it was demystifying phonics instruction, navigating structured literacy, or choosing the right decodable texts, each episode tackled real classroom struggles with clarity and compassion. From veteran teachers rethinking old routines to new educators building strong reading foundations from the start, our goal was to support you every step of the way. As we wrap up this first season, we’re celebrating your dedication—and getting ready to bring even more actionable insights in Season 2!

Show Links

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Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

If you’ve ever felt pressured to introduce sight words early but weren’t sure how to do it in a way that actually supports reading development, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down when and how to introduce high-frequency words the right way—using research-backed strategies that align with the science of reading.

We’ll explore why traditional sight word memorization sets students up for guessing, how to introduce high-frequency words based on phonics skills, and a simple, brain-friendly method to help kids truly map words into memory.

In this episode, I'll dive into...

• Why traditional sight word drills don’t work—and what to do instead.
• The best order to introduce high-frequency words (hint: it’s NOT random!)
• A simple, research-based strategy to help students actually remember sight words.

Show Links

Pack of Sound Maps
Sight Word Lists Sorted by Phonics Skill
Phonics Lessons Vol. 1 (Alphabet)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 2 (Short Vowel Centers)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 3 (Digraphs, Floss Rule & Magic E)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 4 (Beginning and Ending Blends)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 5 (Syllable types & Vowel Teams)
Phonics Lessons Vol. 6 (Diphthongs, R-Influenced Vowels, Prefixes & Suffixes)
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Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.