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Shanahan on Literacy

Shanahan on Literacy

Written by: Timothy Shanahan
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About this listen

Timothy Shanahan is a renowned expert on the teaching of literacy. This podcast addresses practical issues in teaching students to read and to read better.Copyright 2023
Episodes
  • Are We Teaching Too Much Phonics?
    Feb 14 2026

    Over the past decade there has been a public outcry for more phonics instruction in our schools. This has resulted in legislation across the country. Now, the discussion seems to be shifting -- reading authorities who played a significant role in this movement are complaining that we are overdoing the phonics thing. This podcast explores how much phonics there should be.

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    15 mins
  • What Are the Best Fluency Learning Targets? I Think My School is Overdoing It.
    Jan 31 2026

    Many schools have adopted fluency learning targets based upon fluency norms. Recent research shows that students are able to comprehend text reasonably well even with lower fluency levels. Does that mean that we are overdoing it with fluency instruction? The answer may surprise you.

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    11 mins
  • When Should Reading Instruction Begin?
    Jan 24 2026

    If you would like to get into a good argument, tell someone when reading instruction should begin. I'm always surprised at how many people have an opinion on that topic, and how vociferously they sometimes share it. This podcast will reveal what we know about the best time to start teaching reading -- maybe it will help you the next time you're in that argument -- but it will likely be of more value to parents and primary grade teachers.

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    12 mins
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