A Simpler Way to Teach Multisyllabic Words with Devin Kerns

Teaching students how to read longer words shouldn’t feel like a lesson in rule-breaker management. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Devin Kearns, a leading researcher in early literacy, who shares a simpler, more flexible way to teach multisyllabic word reading—without relying on confusing syllable rules that don’t always work. If you’ve ever watched your students freeze at the sight of a longer word, this conversation is going to change the way you teach.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Why traditional syllable division rules fall apart in real classrooms.
• Two simple principles to make decoding multisyllabic words easier.
• A step-by-step strategy that helps students self-correct when decoding.
• How to help students feel confident—even when their first try isn’t perfect.
• Why it’s okay to let go of perfection and focus on flexibility.

Show Links

Devin Kearns Website / Phinder
How Many Syllables?
Differentiation Podcast Episode
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