The Science of Reading Formula

Teaching kids to decode words is essential, but what happens when they can read the words and still don’t understand what they’re reading? In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked role of academic language in reading comprehension. Language expert Trina Spencer joins us to explain why strong language skills are the true foundation of literacy and what teachers can start doing right away to help students build them. If you’ve ever had students who read fluently but struggle to make meaning from text, this conversation will shift the way you think about comprehension instruction.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
Why spoken language, not phonics, is the true foundation of reading comprehension.
What academic language really is and why it is much more than just vocabulary.
The different types of academic vocabulary, including general academic words, domain-specific words, polysemous words, and morphologically complex words.
A powerful 30-second strategy that helps students learn new words independently using inferential thinking.
Why read-alouds alone are not enough for building strong language comprehension and what teachers can do instead.
Simple shifts teachers can make to help students develop the language skills needed for reading success.
Show Links
Dr. Trina Spencer's website // on LinkedIn // free resources
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What if reading isn’t just a skill we teach—but a right we protect?
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall, a powerful voice in education who invites us to rethink what it really means to teach every child how to read. We go beyond the buzzwords and into the heart of why literacy matters—not just for achievement, but for identity, dignity, and opportunity.
This conversation will challenge you (in the best way), ground you in purpose, and give you the language to advocate for real change—without needing to overhaul your classroom.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
What it really means to honor literacy as a human right.
How to spot the invisible barriers some students face.
Why representation in literacy materials matters more than we think.
What small shifts can make your instruction more inclusive.
How to keep growing—without guilt, overwhelm, or perfectionism.
Show Links
Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall 's website // on LinkedIn // on X (formerly Twitter)
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow
If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.
Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!
While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

You’ve heard all about the science of reading—but what about the science of writing? Most K–2 teachers are handed phonics programs with zero guidance on how to actually teach writing. That changes today.
In this episode, Joan Sedita pulls back the curtain on what your teacher prep program never taught you. She introduces her powerful Writing Rope framework, shares why oral language matters more than perfect spelling in the early years, and gives you permission to start where your students are—scribbles, drawings, and all.
Whether you're teaching kinders who can’t write a sentence or second graders stuck in short, choppy responses, this episode will transform how you think about writing instruction.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
The 5 strands of writing all K–2 teachers should be weaving into their day.
Why “just wait until they can write” is the wrong advice for early learners.
Easy ways to turn drawing and talking into real writing progress.
How to make writing a daily routine—even in 15 minutes or less.
Show Links
Keys to Literacy
Joan Sedita's Books on Amazon
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow
If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.
Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!
While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What happens when a veteran teacher discovers that her reading instruction isn’t working—not even for her own son?
In this episode, Lindsay Kemeny, author of 7 Mighty Moves, shares the pivotal moment that changed everything and walks us through the practical shifts she made to align her classroom with the science of reading.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
The 7 Mighty Moves and how to apply them without a complete overhaul.
Why decodable texts are helpful—but not forever.
How to design a reading block that actually works for your students.
The difference between engagement and entertainment.
What to do if you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start.
Show Links
Lindsay Kemeny Instagram // LinkedIn // Podcast // Website
7 Mighty Moves
Rock Your Literacy Block
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow
If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.
Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!
While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!

What if your MTSS system actually worked—and didn’t leave teachers or students overwhelmed?
In this episode, Dr. Joan Schumann shares the exact strategies she used to build a Multi-Tiered System of Support that’s practical, sustainable, and truly effective. Whether you're a classroom teacher, coach, or school leader, this conversation will help you rethink how you use data, strengthen Tier 1, and support interventionists—without burning everyone out.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
The #1 mistake schools make with MTSS (and how to avoid it).
How to know if it’s a student issue… or a Tier 1 issue.
A simple 75/75 rule that streamlines your intervention process.
What to do when your Tier 2 students aren’t progressing.
How to train and support interventionists (even if they’re brand new).
Show Links
Joan's website / LinkedIn
MTSS Association
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow
If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.
Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!
While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!