Little Tidbits - Articles
Research-informed articles that bridge literacy research and classroom practice through practical insights for educators.
Independent Reading: Making Every Minute Count
By: Francine Swickheimer, Ed.D., C-SLDI
Independent reading can provide a powerful opportunity for students to practice and grow—but more time does not automatically mean more growth. This article explores how teachers can make those minutes more purposeful by striking the right balance between independent practice and support, especially for striving readers. The goal is to help every student build the skills, stamina, and confidence needed to become a stronger, more independent reader.
Looking Beyond the Conversation: Using Reading Conferences to Guide Responsive Literacy Instruction
By: Francine Swickheimer, Ed.D., C-SLDI
Reading conferences offer more than an opportunity to check in with students—they give teachers a valuable window into how students process text and where instruction can move learning forward. This article explores research-informed strategies for using purposeful reading conferences as formative assessment, providing instructional feedback and support in the moment, and using patterns across conferences to guide responsive individual, small-group, and whole-class literacy instruction.
Looking Beyond the Book: What Teachers Can Learn During Independent Reading
By: Francine Swickheimer, Ed.D., C-SLDI
Independent reading offers more than an opportunity for students to practice reading—it gives teachers a valuable window into how students think, problem-solve, and engage with text. This article explores research-informed strategies for using observation, conversation, and reflection during independent reading to better understand readers, make responsive instructional decisions, and strengthen literacy instruction.
Independent Reading as Instructional Time
By: Francine Swickheimer, Ed.D., C-SLDI
Independent reading is a valuable part of the literacy block, but what teachers do during that time matters. This article explores research-informed strategies for transforming independent reading from a quiet classroom routine into an opportunity to observe readers, gather meaningful data, and provide targeted instructional support.
Strong Starts: Turning Summer Reflection into Intentional Literacy Planning
By: Francine Swickheimer, Ed.D., C-SLDI
Discover how intentional reflection, focused planning, and practical preparation can help educators create a strong start to the school year. This article explores research-informed strategies for moving from summer reflection to purposeful literacy instruction.