Literacy Blogs

Teacher question: I’m confused. I've understood your message that we should stop obsessing about deriving an independent or instructional reading level. But I’ve also read that you feel that there is a place for F&P style running records (many schools still use them!). If a running record is producing a reading level, isn't this going against the idea that we should do away with the instructional level? Aren't there other problems with these tests, too (design problems, large standard errors, etc.)? Shanahan responds: You have it right, sort of. I thought my position on this was adroit and artful and you seem to find ...

Teacher question: I am working through my state’s “Literacy Plan.” There are several instructional practices that get the “thumbs down” here as being “not in alignment with evidence-based instruction.” The list is long and includes guided reading, leveled readers, and informal reading inventories. I’m curious what your take on those practices is?  Shanahan response: Thanks for sharing. The list you sent was long and I agree with your state on some of the items (e.g., three-cueing, miscue analysis, balanced literacy – whatever that is), but I suspect those who are calling the shots are reacting more to social media buzz words than to any ...