In Part One of my S5E21 @schoolutionspodcast conversation, Maria Walther breaks down the critical difference between read aloud and shared reading, and shares why those short, focused bursts of instruction are the bridge your students need between teacher-led learning and independence. We discuss how to make this work alongside published curriculum, effective teaching, instructional strategies, and lesson planning that honors what kids need.
Key Topics Discussed in Part One:
✅ The difference between read aloud and shared reading
✅ Why brevity matters for student engagement, active learning, and attention in class
✅ How to connect phonics instruction to authentic reading experiences
✅ Planning short burst shared reading sessions that boost student participation
✅ Using picture books you already have for innovative teaching and inclusive teaching
✅ Supporting student motivation and inspiring students through focused literacy instruction
Some resources mentioned:
Other Books by Maria:
Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Maria Walther
01:00 - The Problem: Shared Reading is Disappearing
02:00 - Episode Structure & What's Coming
03:00 - Meet Maria Walther: Literacy Expert
04:00 - Essential Research: Peter Johnston's "Choice Words"
05:00 - Why Shake Up Shared Reading?
06:30 - Read Aloud vs. Shared Reading: Key Differences
08:00 - Connecting Phonics to Shared Reading
09:00 - The Power of Short Bursts
10:00 - Planning a Shared Reading Session
12:00 - Text Accessibility & Student Support
13:00 - Lightning Round Begins
13:30 - Advice for First-Year Teachers
14:00 - Biggest Misconception About Shared Reading
14:15 - Most Important Literacy Skill: Inferring
14:45 - What Surprises About First Graders
15:00 - Go-To Questions During Read Aloud
16:00 - This Week's Challenge
17:00 - Wrap-Up & Preview of Part 2
📧 Connect: schoolutionspodcast@gmail.com
🎵 Music: Benjamin Wahl
🔗 Part Two drops this week - 🔔SUBSCRIBE for more teaching tips, and
💬SHARE with fellow educators!
When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.
