DiscoverThe Science of Reading FormulaWhen Phonics Isn't Enough with Michelle Sullivan
When Phonics Isn't Enough with Michelle Sullivan

When Phonics Isn't Enough with Michelle Sullivan

Update: 2025-08-04
Share

Description

Ever feel like phonics just isn’t enough to help your students tackle bigger words? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, we’re joined by literacy coach Michelle Sullivan to explore why morphology—yes, even in K–2—is the missing link in your literacy block. She shares easy-to-implement strategies that help kids understand how words work—without overwhelming them (or you). If you’re ready to make word study more meaningful, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

  • Why introducing morphology in primary grades is essential—not optional.
  • The difference between teaching phonics and teaching word structure.
  • What a “colorful classroom” really means (hint: it’s not about bulletin boards).
  • Easy ways to start using base words, suffixes, and prefixes with young learners.
  • How to integrate morphology, phonics, and vocabulary for deeper comprehension.

Show Links

Michelle's Website / Podcast / Instagram / TPT Shop
Mastering Morphology Course (Logos Literacy Academy on IG)
ABCs of Morphology Reference Sheet
Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!

Rate, Review, and Follow

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.

Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! 

Comments 
In Channel
loading
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

When Phonics Isn't Enough with Michelle Sullivan

When Phonics Isn't Enough with Michelle Sullivan

Malia Hollowell