Critiquing the “science of reading” movement: Teaching reading is “both/and” 

Critiquing the “science of reading” movement: Teaching reading is “both/and” 

Author: Ethical Schools May 22, 2023 Duration: 34:45
Lynne Einbender and Susie Rolander, reading and literacy faculty at Bank Street College, talk about supporting children’s learning to read and the components of a full-fledged language arts program. One size does not fit all: children with different strengths and experiences have a spectrum of needs. Overview 00:00-00:43 Intros 00:43-03:01 What do its advocates mean by the “science of reading?’ 03:01-06:44 Effective ways to support children in learning to read and acquiring literacy 06:44-10:30 Balanced literacy 10:30-13:39 Learning to read and learning to write 13:39-15:21 Effects, if any, on “science of reading” laws on student achievement 15:21-20:13 Best ways to help more children become proficient readers 20:13-22:31 Lucy Calkins’s Reading Workshop and Fountas & Pinnell Leveled Literacy Intervention system 22:31-23:41 Recommended resource—“Shifting the Balance” by Jan Burkins and Kari Yates 23:41-27:35 Children with special needs 27:35-30:28 Equity 30:28- Outro   Transcript Click here to see the full transcription of this episode. 

Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
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