Melissa & Lori Love Literacy ® | Science of Reading for Teachers

Supported by Great Minds

Melissa & Lori Love Literacy® is a science of reading podcast for teachers who want to understand how reading really works and what that means for classroom instruction.Each month, Melissa & Lori explore topics in reading instruction by talking with researchers, authors, and classroom teachers who are bringing reading research into their classrooms.Melissa & Lori are like the teachers next door, now behind the mic. They learn alongside listeners and ask the same questions educators everywhere are asking: What does the research say about reading? What does strong literacy instruction actually look like in real classrooms? Through these conversations, the podcast helps bridge the gap between reading research and day-to-day teaching.Episodes explore topics including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, spelling, reading intervention, and other key areas of structured literacy instruction.Melissa & Lori help teachers think through what reading research can look like in their own classrooms.

  1. To Read Stuff, You Have to Know Stuff with Kelly Gallagher

    2D AGO

    To Read Stuff, You Have to Know Stuff with Kelly Gallagher

    Episode 251 One of the most consistent findings in reading research is this: how much you know determines how far you can go as a reader. In this episode, we’re joined by Kelly Gallagher, author of To Read Stuff, You Have to Know Stuff, to explore why knowledge is central to comprehension and what that means for classroom instruction. Kelly helps us rethink the long-standing emphasis on isolated reading strategies and instead focus on building knowledge at multiple levels: word, sentence, passage, article, and book. Kelly offers clear examples and practical thinking that will help you reflect on how knowledge is built over time and how we can design instruction that goes deeper, not just wider. RESOURCES To Read Stuff, You Have To Know Stuff by Kelly GallagherKelly Gallagher’s Article of the Week If you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    56 min
  2. Vocabulary Strategies to Boost Word Learning with Melissa Cheesman Smith, Savannah Campbell, & Tim Rasinski

    APR 24

    Vocabulary Strategies to Boost Word Learning with Melissa Cheesman Smith, Savannah Campbell, & Tim Rasinski

    Episode 251 In this episode, we’re joined by Tim Rasinski, Melissa Cheesman, and Savannah Campbell, authors of The Megabook of Vocabulary, to talk about practical, classroom-ready strategies that actually work. We dig into the biggest misconceptions about vocabulary instruction, where vocabulary words should come from, how many exposures a word truly needs, and how to move words from simple recognition to confident use in speaking and writing. You’ll hear about: Why morphology and generative vocabulary are more powerful than weekly word listsHow Word Ladders build decoding, spelling patterns, and vocabulary simultaneouslyHow to integrate fluency and vocabulary through repeated reading, Readers’ Theater, and performance-based routinesWhat “deep processing” really means—and why it makes words stick long termThis conversation bridges research and practice, showing how vocabulary connects to decoding, fluency, and comprehension in meaningful ways. If you’re looking for high-impact routines that support all learners. This episode will leave you with actionable ideas you can use right away. Vocabulary doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It can be powerful, generative, and deeply connected to everything else we teach. Resources  Megabook of Vocabulary (Free Printable Resource aligned to this episode!) Megabook of Vocabulary (Book) Tim Rasinski's Website + ResourcesIf you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    1h 1m
  3. [Listen Again] Ten Vocabulary Moves Backed by Research with Blythe Anderson

    APR 17

    [Listen Again] Ten Vocabulary Moves Backed by Research with Blythe Anderson

    What does the research really say about effective vocabulary instruction—and how can we translate it into daily classroom practice? In this episode, we’re joined by literacy expert Blythe Anderson to unpack vocabulary moves grounded in research that make a measurable difference for students. From intentional word selection to meaningful student talk, Blythe shares practical, classroom-ready strategies that help educators move beyond “word of the week” and into instruction that builds deep, lasting word knowledge. Together, we explore: Why explicit vocabulary instruction mattersHow to choose the right words to teachThe role of discussion and student engagementPractical routines that strengthen word learning across content areasHow to ensure vocabulary sticks for long-term comprehensionWhether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school leader, this conversation will leave you with concrete, research-backed practices you can implement immediately. Tune in to learn how small, intentional shifts in vocabulary instruction can lead to big gains in student word learning and comprehension. If you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    48 min
  4. The Research on Vocabulary Instruction with Margaret McKeown

    APR 10

    The Research on Vocabulary Instruction with Margaret McKeown

    Episode 250 In this episode, we’re joined by Margaret McKeown, a leading researcher in vocabulary and language development, to explore what effective vocabulary instruction really looks like in practice. Margaret helps us unpack common misconceptions about vocabulary teaching, including the pressure to ensure students “master” every word and the belief that vocabulary instruction must always be formal and pre-planned. She explains the power of informal instruction words “running through the classroom” and why repeated exposure over time supports deep word learning. We also dive into: What learning words in context actually means (and what it doesn’t)How to think about vocabulary tiers without treating them like a rulebookWhen vocabulary should be taught (before, during, or after reading)The connection between vocabulary knowledge and comprehensionBetter ways to assess vocabulary beyond traditional testsMargaret reminds us that vocabulary learning is more like climbing a ladder than crossing a finish line. Not every word requires deep instruction, but thoughtful, strategic choices can make a meaningful impact on comprehension. If vocabulary instruction has ever felt overwhelming, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical insight for making it manageable and effective. If you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    52 min
  5. Small-Group Interventions That Actually Work with Kerry Cusick & Erin Sharon

    MAR 27

    Small-Group Interventions That Actually Work with Kerry Cusick & Erin Sharon

    Episode 248 There’s a saying we hear often in literacy work: you don’t want to try to intervene your way out of a Tier 1 problem. Real change happens when classroom instruction and small-group support are aligned. In this episode, we’re joined by Kerry Cusick and Erin Sharon, two reading interventionists, who share how aligning Tier 1 instruction with the small-group work they lead every day transformed both their approach and student outcomes. While their work lives in intervention, the routines and decision-making they describe are just as relevant for classroom teachers running small groups. In this conversation, we explore: What small-group intervention looked like before alignment and what had to changeHow clearer, more consistent Tier 1 instruction reshaped small-group teachingWhat responsive small-group lessons look like when they’re built around student needHow phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, and meaning work together in small groupsWhy fluency matters and how routines move students from sounds to connected textKerry and Erin share practical examples from their MTSS work, including how they use data to form groups, align with classroom scope and sequence, and design small-group instruction that builds accuracy, automaticity, and meaning. RESOURCES Small-Group Instruction Listening GuideBuilding Fluency with POSSUM with Melissa Orkin and Maryanne Wolf (podcast episode)Reading Universe Read Works Read Live Roll & ReadsUFLI KindergartenUFLI Grade 1 Neuhaus Education Center Rapid Recognition Chart Generator Crafting MindsIf you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    54 min
  6. [Listen Again] Maximizing Small-Group Reading Instruction

    MAR 20

    [Listen Again] Maximizing Small-Group Reading Instruction

    Episode 143  This conversation remains one of our most downloaded episodes and for good reason. As we focus this month on small-group instruction, we’re revisiting this important discussion with a team of authors who published the article Maximizing Small-Group Reading Instruction. In this episode, we explore:  • Why small-group reading instruction has been so widely adopted  • What the research actually says about its effectiveness  • Common misconceptions about small-group time  • What makes small-group instruction purposeful and impactful If you’re rethinking how small-group time fits within strong Tier 1 instruction, or wondering how to make those minutes count, this episode offers research-informed clarity. Resources Maximizing Small-Group Reading Instruction Dr. Neena Saha’s Reading Research Recap of this research What Should Small Group Instruction Look Like? Tim Shanahan Reinterpreting the development of reading skills Scott Paris Applying New Visions of Reading Development in Today's Classrooms Kay Stahl Text Project with Freddy Hiebert Choice Words: How Our Language Affects Our Children’s Learning by Peter JohnstonIf you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    1h 6m
  7. Small Groups, Big Results with Julia Lindsey

    MAR 13

    Small Groups, Big Results with Julia Lindsey

    Episode 247 Small-group instruction can feel powerful and overwhelming at the same time. Questions about grouping, time, routines, and impact come up constantly. In this episode, we’re joined by Julia Lindsey, author of Small Groups, Big Results, to talk about what actually makes small-group instruction work. Julia helps break down small groups into manageable, intentional practices that don’t require more time or complexity, just clearer purpose. In this conversation, we discuss: Why small groups don’t need to be long to have a big impactHow flexible, needs-based grouping supports student growthThe role of immediate, specific feedback in small-group readingPractical routines teachers can use right awayHow small-group instruction connects to Tier 1 teachingWhether you’re new to small groups or looking to refine your approach, Julia offers clarity, research, and realistic guidance. RESOURCES Small-Group Instruction Listening GuideSmall Groups, Big Results: Evidence-Based Routines to Get Every Child Reading by Julia Lindsey Reading Above the Fray: Reliable, Research-Based Routines for Developing Decoding Skills by Julia LindseyOther podcast episodes with Julia Lindsey: Science of Reading Part 1: Decodable Texts, Sound Walls, & the Aim of Early LiteracyScience of Reading Part 2: Decodable Texts, Sound Walls, & the Aim of Early LiteracyResearch-Based Routines for Developing Decoding Skills with Julia LindseyReaders' Theater: Easy, Effective, & Fun! with Chase YoungUFLI Foundations Toolbox FCRR Student Center ActivitiesIf you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    54 min
  8. Top Fluency Strategies Teachers Love from K–8 Classrooms

    FEB 20

    Top Fluency Strategies Teachers Love from K–8 Classrooms

    Episode 246 Fluency looks different across grade levels, but it always matters. In this special mashup episode, Melissa and Lori bring together voices from seven classroom teachers, spanning first grade through eighth grade, to show how fluency comes to life in real classrooms. Each teacher shares a best practice they use to support accuracy, automaticity, and expression, always grounded in meaningful reading. You’ll hear about a range of approaches, including: Songs, shared reading, and read-alouds in early gradesPartner reading routines that build accountability and supportPerformance-based practices like Readers’ TheaterUsing oral reading as assessment and feedbackStructuring small groups to support different fluency needsThis episode is full of practical ideas, classroom insight, and teacher wisdom, whether you’re teaching in the primary grades or supporting older readers. Resources:  Check out our Fluency Listening Guide for links to all of the episodes! Featured Episodes: First Steps to Fluency: How Young Learners Become Independent Readers with Virginia Quinn-Mooney Improving Student Reading Growth in Months with Fluency Instruction and Practice with Lorraine Griffith and Lindsay Kemeny A Classroom Fluency Protocol That Works with Aaron GrossmanBaltimore Secondary Literacy Teachers Talk Fluency with Tanisha Dasmunshi, Emily Jaskowski, and Emery Uwimana Watch Virginia Teach Fluency in this video Let’s bring back the magic of song by Tim RasinskiLindsay Kemeny YouTubePartner Reading with Paragraph Shrinking3 Phases for Fluency by Aaron GrossmanTim Rasinski's Multidimensional Fluency RubricAaron's website: Just Two Teachers (click Readers Theater for links to scripts!)Chase Young's Readers Theater scripts If you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy, bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50. Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com.

    51 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
45 Ratings

About

Melissa & Lori Love Literacy® is a science of reading podcast for teachers who want to understand how reading really works and what that means for classroom instruction.Each month, Melissa & Lori explore topics in reading instruction by talking with researchers, authors, and classroom teachers who are bringing reading research into their classrooms.Melissa & Lori are like the teachers next door, now behind the mic. They learn alongside listeners and ask the same questions educators everywhere are asking: What does the research say about reading? What does strong literacy instruction actually look like in real classrooms? Through these conversations, the podcast helps bridge the gap between reading research and day-to-day teaching.Episodes explore topics including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, spelling, reading intervention, and other key areas of structured literacy instruction.Melissa & Lori help teachers think through what reading research can look like in their own classrooms.

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