Shanahan on Literacy
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.
Latest Episodes
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Are We Teaching Too Much Phonics?
FEBRUARY 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 overd...
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What Are the Best Fluency Learning Targets? I Think My School is Overdoing It.
JANUARY 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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When Should Reading Instruction Begin?
JANUARY 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 re...
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