Stellar Teacher Podcast: A Podcast for Upper Elementary Teachers

311: Small Group Instruction Made Simple: How to Use Data to Support Every Reader 02.07.2026 13min

Part 6: Your Literacy Block Series Learn how to make small group instruction purposeful and effective. Tami breaks down the five key questions about small groups: what they are, what they look like, how they differ from whole group, how much time to spend, and real examples using Stellar Literacy Collective resources. Perfect for upper elementary teachers looking to differentiate literacy instruction and meet student needs.Topics Covered:Defining small group instruction vs. whole groupForming fluid groups based on student dataTime management for small groupsWord study & morphology lessonsAddressing foundational reading gapsResources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/join

310: Writing Belongs in Your Literacy Block (Here's How) 29.06.2026 11min

Part 5: Your Literacy Block SeriesIn this episode of our Your Literacy Block series, Emily is talking all about writing— and why it deserves a place in every upper elementary literacy block.Many teachers think of writing as essays, state testing, and lengthy writing projects.... but writing can be so much more than that. When students write about what they read, they deepen comprehension, organize their thinking, and make their learning visible.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why writing and reading are so closely connected• The importance of sentence-level writing instruction• How writing can strengthen comprehension without adding another subject block to your day• Three simple writing routines you can start using immediately:Writing About ReadingExpand with DetailsCombining SentencesIf you've ever wondered how to fit writing into your literacy block, this episode will give you practical ideas that build stronger readers, writers, and thinkers —all within the instructional time you already have.Tune in next week as we wrap up the series with small group instruction!Resources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/join

[Listen Again] Why Reading Fluency Matters More Than You Think 25.06.2026 17min

Think fluency instruction is only for primary grades? Think again.In this episode, we're unpacking why reading fluency remains one of the most important—and often overlooked—components of literacy instruction in upper elementary. You'll learn how fluency impacts comprehension, the common signs students are struggling, and simple ways to build meaningful fluency practice into your literacy block.Plus, we’ll share an easy-to-implement 5 day fluency routine that can help students become more confident, expressive, and successful readers.Fluency isn't just about reading faster, it’s the bridge between decoding and comprehension.Resources & Links:The Stellar Literacy Collective stellarteacher.com/joinTier 1 Instruction That Works Workshop stellarteacher.com/workshop

309: Fluency - The Bridge Between Decoding & Comprehension 21.06.2026 11min

Your Literacy Block: Part 4Fluency is more than reading fast — it's the bridge between word recognition and comprehension. In this episode of the Your Literacy Block series, Emily breaks down what reading fluency really means, why upper elementary students still need explicit fluency instruction, and three simple, research-backed activities you can start using this week.You'll learn:the 3 components of fluency: accuracy, automaticity, and prosodyHow fluency connects to Scarborough's Reading RopeWhy upper elementary teachers often overlook fluency instruction3 quick fluency activities: repeated reading (with the "One Glow, One Grow" partner routine), echo reading, and silly voicesMark your calendars! The Stellar Teacher Collective Kickoff is coming up — a live virtual training just for our Collective members. Join us July 5th - 10th as we explore the *new* Collective website and plan and prep for the school year. This is your chance to learn live, ask questions in real time, and connect with fellow upper elementary teachers in the community.Not a Collective member yet? stellarteacher.com/joinCatch up on the series:Part 1 (Comprehension)Part 2 (Word Study with Kori),Part 3 (Phonics & Phonemic Awareness).

[Listen Again] Intervention Strategies for Struggling Readers with Shannon Moore 18.06.2026 31min

Supporting struggling readers is one of the most important—and often most challenging—parts of literacy instruction. When intervention time is limited and student needs vary widely, it can be difficult to know where to focus your efforts.In this episode, literacy specialist Shannon Moore joins us to discuss the key components of effective reading intervention and how teachers can create systems that lead to meaningful student growth. Whether you're responsible for intervention groups, supporting students during your literacy block, or looking for ways to strengthen your school's intervention practices, this conversation will provide clear, actionable ideas you can put into practice right away.In this episode, we'll discuss:• The four essential components of effective literacy intervention• How to use assessment data to make informed instructional decisions• Tips for creating flexible, skill-based intervention groupsIf you're looking for a more structured approach to supporting struggling readers, this episode is full of practical advice and encouragement.Resources & Links:The Stellar Literacy Collective stellarteacher.com/joinThe Stellar Reading Intervention Toolkit stellarteacher.com/intervention

308: Phonics & Phonemic Awareness: Closing Gaps in Upper Elementary 15.06.2026 11min

Your Literacy Block: Part 3If you've ever wondered whether phonemic awareness and phonics still matter in upper elementary, this episode is for you!While these foundational skills are often associated with primary grades, many students in third, fourth, and fifth grade continue to struggle because of gaps in their word recognition skills. In this episode, we're unpacking the difference between phonemic awareness and phonics, why both are essential for reading success, and how teachers can provide targeted support without overhauling their entire literacy block.In this episode, we'll discuss:The difference between phonemic awareness and phonicsWhy foundational reading skills still matter in grades 3–5How gaps in word recognition impact fluency and comprehensionScarborough’s Reading Rope and the role of word recognitionPractical phonemic awareness activities for upper elementary studentsEffective phonics routines and instructional strategiesWays to provide targeted support without adding more to your plateResources Mentioned:⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

[Listen Again] How the Brain Learns Words (and Why It Matters for Reading Success) with Dr. Molly Ness 11.06.2026 24min

We replayed an interview with Dr. Molly Ness last week... and we just could not help airing this one too! We love our interview episodes. What helps a word move from something students have to sound out to something they instantly recognize?In this episode, literacy researcher and educator Dr. Molly Ness joins us to explore orthographic mapping—the process that allows readers to permanently store words in memory for quick and effortless retrieval.If you've ever worked with students who can decode a word one day but seem to forget it the next, this conversation will help explain why. Dr. Ness breaks down the science behind how the brain learns words and shares a practical four-step routine teachers can use to support word learning, fluency, and reading comprehension.Whether you're a classroom teacher, interventionist, or literacy coach, you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how skilled reading develops—and simple instructional moves you can implement right away.In this episode, you'll learn:What orthographic mapping is and how it supports fluent readingWhy automatic word recognition is critical for comprehensionThe connection between phonemic awareness, phonics, and word memoryCommon misconceptions about how students learn wordsA simple four-step routine that helps words "stick"If you love what Dr. Molly Ness has to say in this episode, you will love what is happening in our Summer Learning Series. We are reading her book Making Words Stick. There is still time to join in - visit stellarteacher.com/summerpd.

307. The 5-Minute Word Study Routine That Builds Reading Confidence 08.06.2026 10min

Your Literacy Block Series: Part 2If your students freeze when they come across long, unfamiliar words while reading, this episode is for you.In today’s episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, we’re talking about how morphology instruction can completely change reading confidence for upper elementary students. You’ll learn how teaching prefixes, suffixes, roots, and base words helps students decode unfamiliar vocabulary, improve spelling, and strengthen comprehension.We also break down what explicit morphology instruction actually looks like during whole group, small group, and independent reading—without adding another complicated routine to your literacy block.Inside this episode:What morphology is and why it mattersSimple questions students can ask when decoding big wordsExamples using words like “unexplainable” and “transportation”Easy word study routines you can use in 5–10 minutes a dayHow morphology supports both decoding and comprehensionIf you teach grades 3–5, this episode will give you practical strategies you can start using right away.Resources Mentioned:⭐ FREE Reading Big Words Poster stellarteacher.com/bigwords⭐ Whole Group Lessons with built-in morphology instruction only available in the Stellar Literacy Collective ⤵︎⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

[Listen Again] Why Every Literacy Block Needs Read-Alouds with Molly Ness 04.06.2026 31min

Are read-alouds still worth making time for in an upper elementary classroom? According to literacy researcher and author Dr. Molly Ness—they absolutely are.In this episode, we dive into the research-backed benefits of read-alouds and why they still play an essential role in a Science of Reading-aligned literacy block. From building vocabulary and background knowledge to increasing engagement and comprehension, Dr. Ness shares practical insights teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms.If you’ve ever questioned whether read-alouds are “enough” academically, this conversation will remind you just how powerful they can be.

306. Comprehension: A Simple Research-Backed Framework That Actually Works 01.06.2026 10min

Your Literacy Block Series: Part 1If you’ve ever wondered:“How do I actually help my students comprehend what they read?” …this episode is for you.Reading comprehension is the goal of reading instruction—but it’s not just one strategy or skill. In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, we’re kicking off a brand-new series all about building an effective upper elementary literacy block.We’re sharing:What reading comprehension actually isWhy comprehension should be woven throughout your literacy blockThe key components that support comprehensionA simple research-backed 3-2-1 framework you can use with ANY textYou’ll walk away with practical ideas for building background knowledge, teaching vocabulary, supporting sentence-level understanding, asking meaningful questions, and using writing about reading to deepen comprehension.If you’ve ever wondered how to actually help students better understand what they read, this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned:⭐ Whole Group Lessons with built-in 3-2-1 comprehension support only available in the Stellar Literacy Collective ⤵︎⭐The Stellar Literacy Collective: stellarteacher.com/slc

305. [Listen Again] Let Them Be Bored: Why Boredom Might Be Exactly What Kids Need with Mike Bender and Chuck Dillon 25.05.2026 35min

304. 7 Things Your Future Teacher Self Will Thank You For 18.05.2026 21min

The school year is almost over, but before you fully switch into summer mode, there are a few things your future teacher self will be so thankful you did. In this episode of The Stellar Teacher Podcast, Sara and Emily share 7 end-of-year reflection and reset strategies that can help make next school year feel more organized, intentional, and less overwhelming.Episode Takeaways:Reflect on your favorite moments, lessons, and routines from the school yearIdentify what brought you and your students the most joy and engagementMake a plan to intentionally repeat those successful moments next yearReflect on areas where you wish you had spent more instructional timeAudit and organize your resources—keep what worked and let go of what didn’tClean up and reset your classroom now so you start next year with a clean slateBe intentional about planning a summer that actually helps you rest and rechargeStay connected with us this summer! Visit stellarteacher.com/summer to sign up for our free learning experience starting June 1!

303. Want More Engagement in May? Try These 3 Literacy Moves 11.05.2026 11min

In this episode, Emily shares 3 simple, low-prep literacy moves that still make a big impact at the end of the year (hello increased engagement!). You’ll hear practical ideas for:Student-led book talks that build excitement around readingFluency performances that combine comprehension, rereading, and engagementBringing back your favorite read-alouds using a simple 3-2-1 comprehension structureThese ideas are designed to help you add structure back into your literacy block while still enjoying the final weeks with your students.Want a freebie to get started? Grab 5 Book Talk Anchor Charts at stellarteacher.com/freebieGrab our Book Talk Templates + Guide on under $5 at stellarteacher.com/booktalkReady to keep the momentum going this summer? Be sure to sign up for our Summer Learning Series for book study, bonus trainings, and practical literacy support. stellarteacher.com/summer

302. Hey Teachers, Don't Miss the Magic of May 04.05.2026 14min

May can feel exhausting, emotional, and chaotic but it can also be one of the most meaningful months of the school year. In this episode, Tami and Sara are reminder teachers not to miss the magic of May.Sara and Tami talk about the unique opportunities this final stretch of the year brings: stronger student relationships, visible growth, classroom confidence, and the chance to finish with purpose instead of just surviving until summer.In this episode, we discuss:Why May can be a powerful month for teachers and studentsHow to stay present during the final weeks of schoolRecognizing the growth your students have madeReady to keep the momentum going this summer? Be sure to sign up for our Summer Learning Series for book study, bonus trainings, and practical literacy support. stellarteacher.com/summer

301. 3 Things That Actually Matter Before the School Year Ends 27.04.2026 10min

As the school year comes to a close, it’s easy to feel pressure to squeeze in one more lesson, finish one more project, or check off every remaining standard. But what if finishing strong didn’t mean doing more?In this episode, Tami shares three powerful reminders to help you navigate the final weeks of the school year with more clarity, intention, and less overwhelm. From letting go of the pressure to “cover everything” to prioritizing meaningful connections with your students, this conversation will help you shift your focus to what truly matters.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why “coverage” doesn’t = learningPermission to not finish every project, book, or standardHow to decide what actually matters in the final weeksWant to connect with Tami and other members of the Stellar Team this summer? Don't miss out on The Stellar Teacher Summer Learning series! Register for updates at stellarteacher.com/summer

300. You Can Love Teaching and Still Want It to Be Easier 20.04.2026 13min

If teaching feels harder than usual right now, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.In this special 🎉300th episode🎉, Emily and Tami share 3 simple ways to make teaching feel easier and more manageable right now (so you can lean into loving it!). They talk about why doing more isn’t the solution, how routines and systems can lighten your load, and what to focus on so you can finish the year strong.P.S. The Stellar Literacy Collective is currently closed for enrollment. But not for long! Join our email list to be the first to know when doors reopen in June 2026—we’ll send updates, early access details, and helpful resources straight to your inbox.stellarteacher.com/newsletter

299. 1 Thing Your Students Actually Need Right Now 13.04.2026 11min

Feeling the pressure to try something new before testing season?In this episode, Emily and 5th grade teacher Meghan share why that instinct might be doing more harm than good. Instead of adding new strategies, they encourage teachers to lean into the routines that are already working. Listen in and walk away with simple ways to strengthen what’s already in place (or super easy to implement) — like a sentence writing routine and the 3-2-1 comprehension framework. This episode is your reminder to stay consistent, trust your teaching, and finish the year strong.Still prepping for those BIG tests? Check out our free Test Prep email series! Sign up at stellarteacher.com/testprep and get 3 free lessons straight to your inbox!

298. Why It's Not Too Late to Support Struggling Readers 06.04.2026 12min

Sign up for our FREE test prep email series: stellarteacher.com/testprep! Get 3 free lessons straight to your inbox.If you’ve ever reached April and wondered why some students still seem to struggle with reading, you’re not alone. In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, we explore a reality many teachers experience during the final months of the school year: student progress in literacy isn’t always smooth or predictable.As academic expectations increase in the spring, gaps in decoding, fluency, and foundational reading skills often become more visible. Passages get longer, questions become more complex, and students are expected to apply multiple literacy skills at once.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy literacy growth often feels messy and unpredictableHow increased reading demands expose hidden skill gapsThe role of decoding and fluency in reading successWhy targeted instruction is more effective than wide reviewHow to identify the biggest barrier to student progressP.S. The Stellar Literacy Collective is currently closed for enrollment. But not for long! Join our email list to be the first to know when doors reopen in June 2026. We’ll send updates, early access details, and helpful resources straight to your inbox.stellarteacher.com/newsletter

297. The Difference Between Feedback and Noise 30.03.2026 20min

In this episode, Sara and Kori discuss the difference between helpful feedback and noise in teaching. With so many opinions and suggestions coming from evaluations, colleagues, professional development, and social media, it can be difficult for teachers to know which feedback to take seriously and which advice to let go.Sara and Kori share personal experiences with receiving feedback throughout their careers and talk about how teachers can learn to filter input, prioritize what matters most, and focus on feedback that supports meaningful professional growth.In this episode, we discuss:The difference between constructive feedback and noiseHow to identify trustworthy sources of feedbackStrategies for filtering and prioritizing feedbackWhy professional growth is a long-term processPrepping for testing season? The Stellar Teacher Co. is here to help! Visit stellarteacher.com/testprep for 3 free test prep lessons.

296. What Calm Classrooms Actually Have in Common (Spoiler: it’s not decor!) 23.03.2026 17min

What do calm classrooms actually look like? Contrary to what many people think, calm classrooms aren’t always silent or perfectly still. Instead, they are spaces where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Emily is joined by Stellar Teacher team member Tami to explore what calm classrooms truly have in common. Drawing on her years of experience teaching elementary students in both Department of Defense schools and public schools, Tami shares practical insights into how teachers can create a classroom environment that feels peaceful, organized, and productive.Together, Emily and Tami discuss the foundational elements that help build calm classrooms, including confident leadership, intentional classroom environments, predictable routines, and strong connections with students. They also share simple strategies teachers can use to reduce chaos and create more consistency throughout the school day.Stay connected with us! Follow us on Instagram @thestellarteachercompanyLooking for quick, actionable PD? Visit our YouTube channel!