Episode 140: The Literacy Knowledge Teachers Need with Mary Jo Fresch
In Episode 140 of Schurtz & Ties, we welcome back literacy expert Mary Jo Fresch to talk about what teachers really need to understand about reading, vocabulary, and language.
Mary Jo has spent decades helping educators make sense of the English language and build the background knowledge needed to confidently teach literacy. In this conversation, we explore the realities of the Science of Reading, the role of phonics across all subjects, and how teachers in any content area can support students as readers and writers.
We also dive into how vocabulary, word origins, and language structures help students move from simply memorizing information to actually building memories and understanding that last.
Along the way we talk about:
• Why every teacher is a teacher of reading
• How understanding word structure and etymology strengthens vocabulary instruction
• The difference between memorizing words and building memories with language
• Why nonfiction text structure matters for student comprehension
• How administrators can better support literacy instruction in their schools
• Whether texting, emojis, and digital communication are changing how students read and write
Mary Jo also shares practical strategies teachers can use immediately to help students break down complex words, understand content-area vocabulary, and become more confident readers.
This episode is packed with insights for teachers, school leaders, and anyone interested in how students learn to read, write, and understand language.
Guest
Mary Jo Fresch
Literacy educator, author, and speaker focused on helping teachers build deep knowledge of the English language and effective literacy instruction.
Website:
https://maryjofresch.com
Listen to More Episodes
🎙 Schurtz & Ties Podcast
https://www.schurtzandties.com
Connect With Us
Follow the show for more conversations about education, culture, and learning.
#SchurtzAndTies #EducationPodcast #Literacy #ScienceOfReading #TeacherLearning #ReadingInstruction #TeacherDevelopment #PodcastForTeachers
