Cozy chats about speech, language and learning
There is an inter-relationship between, reading, spelling, handwriting, and written expression that needs to be honored when we think about teaching reading. There are multiple areas in the brain that are essential in learning how to read. Our instruction, therefore, needs to be explicit, systematic, cumulative, and multi-sensory.
Phonological Awareness, Phonemic Awareness, and Phonics are all terms that sound alike but are very distinct. Often the image of an umbrella is used in trying to explain the differences between the three terms, with phonological awareness being the umbrella and phonemic awareness and phonics…
As a speech and language pathologist or a teacher we need to use research to drive instruction. Recently on an emergency trip to the dentist, I complained that as I was getting older my teeth were falling apart and I lamented the aging process. However…
Sometimes the best materials are ones that are inexpensive, readily available and easy to use. I am someone who is never without her cup filled with water and a straw. I have straws stored at home, in the car and at school so I always have…
This semester at Providence College we tried a flip class in the Communication Disorders Class with readings and PowerPoints happening outside of class and during class, we did activities that would support language development. Besides for the reading and response to blog entries students were…
Okay, true confession, I am a terrible speller. I went to parochial school and we had weekly spelling bees and tests. I consistently was the first one out in the spelling bee. The nuns would try to teach me and I remember one of them proclaiming ”…
Have you been to a movie lately? What happens before the main movie? You typically are watching movie previews. Why do movie theaters do this? They want to entice you to want to see the movie that they are previewing. The same thing should happen…
How do you take an old favorite and incorporate all the common core standards that you need to cover in your class? Â Can you still do a read aloud and still be able to get what you need to get done for the curriculum? YES,…
In honor of Autism Acceptance month, I am sharing a fun lesson I do with my students AND giving you a chance to enter a raffle for a ten dollar TPT card ( April 2017). I love using themes in my lessons. It helps students…
 The internet has allowed us as clinicians to have research-based resources at our fingertips but sometimes finding these resources can take a treasure map. Here are some great resources: Reading Comprehension: Readworks The nonprofit ReadWorks provides K-12 teachers with what to teach and how…