The Science of Reading Community Workshops
Join the Skaneateles Library in-person or on Zoom for a series of 6 free classes to introduce how the brain learns to read, the systemic problems that are a root cause of the literacy crisis in our country, and what you can do at home to support the instruction in our schools. All sessions are led by Kelli Johnson, a former teacher and local expert in reading education and community engagement.
Registration requested. You can register today by going to the Skaneateles Library’s event calendar and selecting the date of the workshop(s) you would like to attend. You can find the event calendar here.
This informative workshop series is intended for adults who are interested in learning about the literacy crisis and/or caregivers with a child learning or struggling to read.
Wired for Language, Not for Reading
Saturday, Sep. 16, 1 - 3 p.m.
Did you know that reading is a relatively new human invention and that no one on the planet is wired for it at birth? The human brain is an amazing organ that, with the correct instruction, upcycles regions of the brain designed for listening and vision to create an new area with the neural circuitry for reading. Learn more about how the brain learns to read and how you can be a partner in the creation of a reader. No previous experience required – just curiosity and a willingness to learn!
Priming the Brain for Reading
Saturday, Sep. 30, 1 - 3 p.m.
Phonological awareness is the most potent predictor of reading success. Learn what it is and some simple tasks to build this skill. Ever heard of a fricative or an affricate? (No, they are not bad words!) Reading and writing are grounded in speech, and these words describe how sounds are produced in the English language. The importance of proper articulation as it relates to reading and spelling will be shared, along with how to support the development of this skill in emerging readers, regardless of their age.
The Brain as a Pattern Detector
Saturday, Oct. 14, 1 - 3 p.m.
Did you know over 90% of the English language is decodable? Learn why the belief that English has “too many exceptions” is actually unfounded. This session is sure to up your Wordle game!
The Brain as a Pattern Detector II
Saturday, Oct. 28, 1 - 3 p.m.
Practice the six syllable types by reading new and nonsense words and learn about the “Heart Word” strategy for the few spelling exceptions. Once you know the six syllable types and understand what makes a word “decodable,” you will never look at words the same way!
Vocabulary: More Than Just Dictionary Definitions
Saturday, Nov. 11, 1 - 3 p.m.
Practice the six syllable types by reading new and nonsense words and learn about the “Heart Word” strategy for the few spelling exceptions. Once you know the six syllable types and understand what makes a word “decodable,” you will never look at words the same way!
Beyond Dick and Jane: Decodable Text as Training Wheels
Saturday, Nov. 18, 1 - 3 p.m.
“Decodable readers” are like training wheels for emerging readers. Learn what makes a text decodable and explore the new collection of books and resources at the Skaneateles Library.