This book provides a clear, actionable blueprint for turning compelling literacy research into meaningful classroom practice by reuniting reading and writing instruction in the service of all students, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Drawing on the latest research and grounded in a structured literacy framework, the book offers a two-part journey: contextual foundations and actionable instructional strategies. Through thoughtfully sequenced “Connect-Learn-Act-Reflect” cycles, each chapter fosters reflective practice and data-informed decision making, urging readers to align their pedagogy with the latest research from cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and education to create integrated literacy experiences in their classroom.
From foundational letter-sound correspondences to advanced comprehension and written expression, this book connects theory to practice, empowering educators to close the research-to-practice gap and build integrated literacy instruction for all students.
Table of Contents:
Part 1: Foundations of Language and Literacy 1. Language Lays the Foundation 2. Reading Theory & Acquisition 3. Writing Theory & Acquisition 4. The Great Divide 5. A Reciprocal Relationship Part 2: Acquiring and Applying Knowledge & Skills 6. Letter/Sound Knowledge & Skills 7. Phonics Knowledge & Skills 8. Semantic Knowledge & Skills 9. Syntactic Knowledge & Skills 10. Bridging Knowledge & Skills to Texts Part 3: Assessment Appendix
About the Author :
Megan Gierka, Ed.D. is a nationally recognized literacy expert and dyslexia advocate who transforms research into action. From classrooms to Congress, she leads implementation of structured literacy across states and schools, empowering educators and shaping policy to ensure all children learn to read.
Nicole Ormandy, MS.Ed., is a distinguished contributor to literacy education who translates research into practice through professional learning, curriculum development, national and international conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications. She brings over a decade of experience as an elementary and special education teacher, with deep expertise in structured literacy and data-based decision-making.
Review :
“Megan Gierka and Nicole Ormandy bring the science of literacy to teachers in smart, meaningful ways—never oversimplifying and always honoring educators’ professionalism. By powerfully bridging research and practice, this book helps teachers understand both the what and the why behind their instruction, so meaningful change can last.”
Sonia Cabell, PhD, Florida State University
“These two educators exemplify translation science in education; through deep passion and commitment, they bridge theory and classroom reality, translating research into practice that empowers and equips teachers, schools and systems with the tools needed for successful learning.”
Tina Zampitella & Aviva Coyne-Green, AIM Academy
“This book makes the research on reading–writing connections usable for teachers. Through clear explanations and practical vignettes, Megan and Nicole translate research into classroom practice, highlighting how reading and writing instruction can mutually reinforce one another in powerful ways.”
Timothy N. Odegard, PhD, Professor of Psychology, Middle Tennessee State University
