Literacy in Color: A Science of Reading Aligned Podcast for Educators

Michelle Sullivan • Literacy Coach & Science of Reading Advocate
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Literacy in Color is the go-to podcast for elementary teachers, literacy coaches, and reading interventionists who are passionate about bringing the Science of Reading to life in vibrant, engaging, and effective ways. Hosted by Michelle Sullivan — a seasoned literacy expert & Science of Reading advocate - with over a decade of experience as a reading interventionist & literacy coach — this show is designed to help you captivate your learners, boost reading fluency, and foster a deep understanding of language. Each week, you’ll discover practical tips, proven strategies, and creative ideas to make your literacy instruction colorful and impactful. From phonics and morphology to vocabulary building and comprehension techniques, we’ll explore the full spectrum of evidence-based practices that support all learners on their journey to becoming confident readers. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting out, “Literacy in Color” will empower you with the tools, inspiration, and know-how to make literacy instruction not just effective, but truly unforgettable. Are you ready to teach colorfully? Hit subscribe and join us each week for a splash of fun, insight, and colorful learning. Connect with me on Instagram @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom for more tips, resources, and community!

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    52. Phonemic Awareness Research Unpacked with Dr. David Kilpatrick

    In this pivotal episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle is joined by cognitive psychologist and reading researcher Dr. David Kilpatrick to untangle some hotly debated ideas surrounding phonemic awareness in the Science of Reading community. This conversation isn’t about taking sides in the “with letters vs. without letters” debate. It’s about getting honest about what the research says, and more importantly, what our individual students truly need. For most children, phonemic awareness develops naturally through phonics instruction. However, for others, particularly those with a phonological core deficit, explicit, oral-only phonemic awareness instruction can be critical. Dr. Kilpatrick clarifies the National Reading Panel findings, unpacks common misinterpretations of his own work, and reminds us to focus on what matters most: meeting the needs of the learner in front of us. Key Takeaways: How phonemic proficiency fuels orthographic mapping, which is essential for fluent word reading For typically developing readers, phonemic awareness develops through learning an alphabetic writing system (i.e. Phonemic Awareness with letters!)It’s beneficial to integrate phonemic awareness and phonicsStudents with phonological core deficits may need oral-only instruction, particularly in intervention settingsPhonemic awareness tasks should only take a few minutes a day - they’re not meant to be long, isolated blocksWhat educators often get wrong about Kilpatrick’s work and what he wishes more people knew Resources & References Mentioned: NRP PA Study Descriptions of “With Letters” Studies (Look into Appendix F of the National Reading Panel)Table of Types of PA TasksPhoneme Manipulation Quotes Across the DecadesWIAT-4 Phonemic Proficiency Results (Single Slide)Teaching Phonemic Awareness in 2024: A Guide for EducatorsEquipped for Reading Success by Dr. David KilpatrickEssentials of Assessing, Preventing, and Overcoming Reading Difficulties by Dr. David KilpatrickThe PAST TenseShanahan’s Blog: RIP to Advanced Phonemic Awareness (meaning the term should be abandoned) This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/michelle_thecolorfulclassroom/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1 h 11 min

  2. 26 AOÛT

    51. Rethinking Sight Words with Pryor Rayburn, Orton Gillingham Mama

    In this episode of Literacy in Color, Michelle sits down with THE Orton Gillingham Mama, Pryor Rayburn to take a deep dive into the hot-button world of sight words and high-frequency word instruction. Pryor busts through common myths, clears up confusing terminology, and explores brain-based practices for teaching high frequency words through the lens of orthographic mapping. Whether you’ve relied on word lists, flashcards, or shape-based strategies in the past, this conversation will help you rethink your approach with evidence and intention. Key Takeaways: What sight words, high-frequency words, heart words, and red words really meanWhy memorization isn’t the goal—and how orthographic mapping is the keyHow to move beyond visual memory and shape-based cuesThe missing pieces in popular “heart word” methods—and how to fix themHow to anchor meaning, teach irregular spellings, and bring context to every wordClassroom-ready routines and tweaks for kinder through upper elementary Resources Mentioned: Pryor’s Free Sight Words QuizPryor’s Sight Words Course: How to Quickly Teach (and Master) Sight Words Connect with Pryor Rayburn: Website: www.OrtonGillinghamMama.comInstagram: @OrtonGillinghamMamaEmail: Pryor@OrtonGillinghamMama Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Take our Course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator

    37 min

  3. 19 AOÛT

    50. The Truth About Progress Monitoring: Myth Busting with Shannon Moore, Moore Literacy Leaps

    In this episode, Michelle is joined by instructional coach and literacy specialist Shannon Moore of Moore Literacy Leaps to bust four major myths about progress monitoring in reading instruction. Together, they tackle what progress monitoring really is (and what it’s not), how it fits into the MTSS framework, and why all students, not just those below grade level, deserve targeted goals and regular check-ins. Whether you're a classroom teacher, reading interventionist, or coach trying to find your rhythm with data collection and student support, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and equipped. Key Takeaways: The real definition of progress monitoring (hint: it’s simpler than you think!)How to avoid common mistakes and save time with smarter systemsWhy goal-setting and student ownership can change everythingWhat to track, how often to assess, and where to beginTools you can use right away to stay organized and proactive Resources Mentioned: Shannon’s Reading Intervention ToolkitShannon’s Progress Monitoring Tracking SheetShannon’s FREE Editable Reading Intervention Schedule Template Connect with Shannon Moore: Instagram: @mooreliteracyleapsWebsite: https://www.mooreliteracyleaps.com/TPT Store: Moore Literacy Leaps Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Take our Course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator

    46 min

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    49. Set for Variability with Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz, Informed Literacy

    What does it really mean to be “set for variability”? In this episode, Michelle is joined by Jen Yagid and Wendy Darasz of Informed Literacy to break down this complex-sounding but classroom-friendly concept. Together, they demystify set for variability, explore its role in decoding, and share practical classroom examples. If you’ve ever wondered how to support students in correcting their own mispronunciations or how to help them flex vowel sounds when the code doesn’t quite match the pronunciation, this episode is packed with practical tips and strategies. Key Takeaways: What “set for variability” actually means (in teacher terms)Why strong decoding is the first step—and flexibility is the secondWhen and how to support struggling readers using this approachHow SSV differs from guessing or 3-cueingHow to build flexibility through small-group cues, hand motions, and sentence contextWhy “the world is not decodable”—and what that means for our instruction Resources Mentioned: Informed Literacy Blog Post: What is Set for Variability and Why is it Important?Informed Literacy Decodables: Jen & Wendy are offering a coupon code: COLOR2025 for one month (until September 2025) just for you! When you purchase a set of their hardcopy decodables, you will get our Supplemental Resource pack for free (You need to put the decodables and the supplemental resource pack into the cart and enter the coupon code: COLOR2025)Informed Literacy Decodable Book Freebie Helpful  References: Set for Variability as a Critical Predictor of Word Reading: Potential Implications for Early Identification and Treatment of DyslexiaUnpacking the Unique Relationship Between Set for Variability and Word Reading Development: Examining Word- and Child-Level Predictors of PerformanceSpelling as Statistical Learning: Using Consonantal Context to Spell VowelsThe Importance of Flexibility of Pronunciation in Learning to Decode: A Training Study in Set for VariabilityThe Role of Set for Variability in Irregular Word Reading: Word and Child Predictors in Typically Developing Readers and Students At-Risk for Reading Disabilities Connect with Jen & Wendy from Informed Literacy: Website: InformedLiteracy.com Instagram: @informedlitInformed Literacy on YouTubeFacebook: @informedlitPinterest: a href="https://www.pinterest.com/informedlit/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    35 min

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    48. SOR Mini-Con 2025 Recap with Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer & Yvette Manns

    In this heartfelt roundtable episode, Michelle is joined by her Science of Reading sidekicks, Heidi Martin, Jessica Farmer, and Yvette Manns to reflect on the very first Science of Reading Mini-Con! From spark-filled sessions to swag bags and sound baths, this conversation is full of gratitude, laughter, and heartfelt takeaways. They revisit each session, share their most memorable moments, and get real about why this work is so personal. You’ll walk away inspired, encouraged, and ready to “keep it going” in your own classroom and community. Thank you to the Science of Reading Mini-Con Sponsors: Hand2MindLexiaReading.comSlant SystemIMSE Connect with the Science of Reading Mini-Con Presenters: Follow @scienceofreadingminicon on Instagram! Heidi Martin @droppinknowledgewitheidiJessica Farmer @farmerlovesphonics Yvette Manns @the_lit_teacherJake Daggett @jake_daggettMichelle Sullivan @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademy Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Take our Course: a...

    53 min

  6. 29 JUIL.

    47. Why Representation in Children’s Books Matters—Especially for Black Boys with Tiffany Obeng, Sugar Cookie Books

    In this powerful episode of Literacy in Color, I’m joined by lawyer-turned-author Tiffany Obeng, founder of Sugar Cookie Books. Together, we unpack the significance of representation in children’s literature, especially for Black boys, and how her “Andrew Learns” series is challenging the traditional narratives and creating space for all kids to feel seen, celebrated, and inspired. Tiffany shares why statistics around literacy fuel her work and how we as educators and parents can build inclusive, representative libraries. This episode is a must-listen for anyone building a classroom or home library with intentionality and heart. Resources Mentioned: Truth About Reading DocumentaryCheck out Tiffany’s Books here! Connect with Tiffany Obeng: Website: www.sugarcookiebooks.comWebsite: www.tiffanyobeng.comLinkedIn: Tiffany Obeng, Esq.Instagram: @sugarcookiebooksFacebook: Sugar Cookie BooksPinterest: Sugar Cookie BooksTPT: Sugar Cookie Books Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit Membership Interested in Learning More about Morphology? Take our Course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator

    33 min

  7. 22 JUIL.

    46. Making Words Stick with Dr. Molly Ness on Orthographic Mapping

    In this powerful episode, we welcome back Dr. Molly Ness, literacy researcher, educator, and co-author of “Making Words Stick”, the latest release from the Scholastic Science of Reading in Practice series. Together with Dr. Katie Pace Miles, Molly has created a teacher-friendly guide to help educators understand orthographic mapping and implement a 4-step routine that supports the mapping process. We dive into what orthographic mapping actually is, why it matters, and how it’s different from memorization. Molly walks us through how the brain learns to read, busts myths about word repetitions, and explains why students must connect sound, spelling, and meaning to build a strong reading brain. Whether you're new to the term “orthographic mapping” or looking to strengthen your instructional practice, this episode is packed with practical insight and inspiration. Get ready to geek out over the reading brain and walk away with ready-to-use classroom strategies that help words stick. Key Takeaways: Orthographic mapping is an invisible cognitive process where words become instantly recognized, not memorized.Sound - Spelling - Meaning ConnectionQuality matters more than quantity when it comes to word repetitions.A 4-step instructional routine: See & Say, Segment & Spell, Study & Suss Out, Search & StickSpelling is a key indicator of a student’s linguistic understanding and should be intentionally taught alongside reading. Resources Mentioned: Making Words Stick IES (Institute of Education Sciences) Practice Guides This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast! Connect with Dr. Molly Ness: Website: https://www.mollyness.com/Website: https://www.dirigoliteracy.com/LinkedIn: Molly Ness, PhDInstagram: @a_reading_motherBlueSky: ‪@mollyness.bsky.social‬End Book Desert Podcast Connect with Dr. Katie Pace Miles: Website: https://www.katiepacemilesphd.com/Website: https://www.readinginstitutenyc.org/Reading Ready ProgramsAdvanced Certificate in Reading ScienceInstagram: @thereadinginstitutenyc Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/michelle_thecolorfulclassroom/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    38 min

  8. 15 JUIL.

    45. A Global Lens on Morphology, Etymology & Literacy Instruction with Dr. Treasa Bowe

    In this episode of Literacy in Color, we’re heading across the pond to Ireland for a powerful conversation with Dr. Treasa Bowe, an international literacy leader and passionate advocate for morphology, etymology, and meaningful instruction. With over two decades of teaching experience in both Ireland and the U.S., Dr. Bowe brings a truly global lens to literacy education. Together, we explore what structured literacy looks like across contexts, how to empower multilingual learners through word study, and what it takes to implement school-wide morphology instruction - even without formal coaching systems. Treasa also shares how she created a scope and sequence for teaching morphology in the upper grades, weaving in etymology, spelling, and background knowledge in a way that’s cohesive, culturally responsive, and curiosity-driven. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to go deeper with word study, this conversation is packed with insights to spark your thinking and strengthen your practice. Key Takeaways: Building a school-wide structured literacy curriculum in a multilingual settingHow word study connects to spelling, vocabulary, and writingEncourage inquiry without having all the answers Resources & People Mentioned: Treasa's Course: Effective Spelling Instruction - Using Morphology to Support Dyslexic Students in an Inclusive ClassroomLanguage TreeLyn StoneZaretta HammondThe Reading LeagueUFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute)EtymonlineJeopardyLabsMembean Connect with Treasa:  Instagram: @betweenthecoversofagoodbook Connect with Me: Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit...

    57 min
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À propos

Literacy in Color is the go-to podcast for elementary teachers, literacy coaches, and reading interventionists who are passionate about bringing the Science of Reading to life in vibrant, engaging, and effective ways. Hosted by Michelle Sullivan — a seasoned literacy expert & Science of Reading advocate - with over a decade of experience as a reading interventionist & literacy coach — this show is designed to help you captivate your learners, boost reading fluency, and foster a deep understanding of language. Each week, you’ll discover practical tips, proven strategies, and creative ideas to make your literacy instruction colorful and impactful. From phonics and morphology to vocabulary building and comprehension techniques, we’ll explore the full spectrum of evidence-based practices that support all learners on their journey to becoming confident readers. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting out, “Literacy in Color” will empower you with the tools, inspiration, and know-how to make literacy instruction not just effective, but truly unforgettable. Are you ready to teach colorfully? Hit subscribe and join us each week for a splash of fun, insight, and colorful learning. Connect with me on Instagram @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom for more tips, resources, and community!

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