A Practical Guide to Developing Reading and Writing Skills While Teaching Content
March 11, 2025
DATE
March 11, 2025
TIME
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Central Time
LOCATION
Session takes place on Zoom
COST/ REGISTRATION
$99/individual
Reading and writing are foundational skills that influence a student’s ability to master subject-specific content. Yet, according to recent data from the National Assessment for Educational Progress, 70% of students in grades 8 and 12 are not reading on grade level. This critical gap means students often struggle to fully comprehend and analyze the complex texts required in subject area courses, leaving educators with a pressing challenge—how to prioritize content delivery while also building essential literacy skills.
The good news? It’s possible to support students’ reading and writing growth through simple, evidence-based strategies that integrate seamlessly into your curriculum. This webinar offers practical approaches to help middle and high school educators nurture these skills, ensuring that all learners can competently engage with and understand challenging academic materials.
Katie McKnight
With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. McKnight is a leading authority in developing effective literacy programs for grades 4-12. Dr. McKnight's deep understanding of adolescent literacy comes from her extensive classroom teaching and academic research experience. Her hands-on classroom insights and her innovative Literacy and Learning Center model have transformed struggling schools worldwide. A prolific author, Dr. McKnight has published 25 works, including her most recent co-authored book, Short Short, Big, which provides essential tools for the teaching of evidence-based writing. She also co-hosts The Science of Reading Podcast for Grades 4-12, sharing insights into the latest educational research and practices. Dr. McKnight's accomplishments have been widely recognized. She is a two-time winner of the Teacher's Choice Award and has received various teaching awards. A sought-after keynote presenter, she captivates audiences with her passion for literacy and education. Recently, she was interviewed about the Science of Reading by EdWeek and the Schoolin' Around Podcast, further cementing her reputation as a thought leader in adolescent literacy.
Jennifer French
Dr. French held roles including elementary teacher, middle school language arts teacher, secondary literacy coach, university associate professor, curriculum director, and assistant superintendent of schools. Her research background has produced a notable publication, Help! My Students Write Like They Text, and the development of ThinkCERCA's Foundational Reading & Linguistics program. Her personal journey of having a son with dyslexia drove her participation as a previous board member and current program reviewer for the International Dyslexia Association. Jenny’s current work focuses on the Science of Reading for struggling adolescents, implementation science and curriculum coaching for school leaders.
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