LitCentric Radio

#67 Gregory, the Terrible Eater Apr 12, 2021

Have you taught irony before? No? Stay tuned!

Gregory, the Terrible Eater, by Mitchell Sharmat, is a classroom classic if there ever was one. It’s a funny book full of irony, which isn’t a topic that many of us discuss in elementary school. But why not? Listen in and discover a lesson that will definitely get kids writing!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#66 Super Sloth Mar 29, 2021

Even a sloth can save the day...eventually.

Super Sloth, by Robert Starling, is such a fun, clever book it will make you laugh out loud. In it we’re introduced to Sloth who desperately wants to become a superhero, however unrealistic that may be. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the unlikely hero and how that relates to a narrative plot.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#65 Arthur's Eyes Mar 15, 2021

Why is cause and effect so confusing? It doesn’t have to be!

Arthur’s Eyes, by Marc Brown, is a serious classroom classic hailing from 1979. In it, we’re introduced to Arthur for the first time, and his compromised vision that ends up causing lots of problems. It’s a great text for exploring cause and effect, and for making this text structure clearer for students.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#64 Going Up! Mar 01, 2021

We’re talking how to introduce new genres - specifically invitations!

Going Up!, by Sherry J. Lee, illustrated by Charlene Chua, has a predictable structure that hides some fun surprises. We’ll accompany Sophie and her dad to a birthday party and explore the genre of invitations in the process. Want to know what the research says about genre study? Stay tuned!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#63 A Chair for My Mother Feb 15, 2021

We’re ‘remembering when’ with flashbacks!

A Chair for My Mother, by Vera B. Williams, offers us a touching tale that draws students right in. In today’s episode we’ll learn how the family’s tragedy turns to triumph in its own sweet way, and we get a chance to flashback in time to understand their story.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#62 The Book With No Pictures Feb 01, 2021

Appearances can be delightful in this book!

The Book With No Pictures, by B.J. Novak, will get kids gigging right off the bat. This highly interactive book engages kids in a dialogue between text and reader - and all without pictures! In today’s episode we’ll explore how the author uses text presentation to guide readers and convey meaning, and learn how students can do this too.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Get your free copy of the Punctuation Continuum - limited time only:

https://litcentric.podia.com/put-an-end-to-missing-punctuation

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#61 Miss Nelson is Missing Jan 18, 2021

We’re exploring voice in today’s episode!

Miss Nelson is Missing, by Harry Allard, illustrated by James Marshall, combines humor and mystery in a delightful way. This story fits our theme for Season 6: “Classroom Classics”. It’s a time-honored text that the next generation of students will love as they explore the contrasting teachers and their voices.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

LitCentric’s YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/user/LitCentric

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#60 M is for Melanin Jan 04, 2021

Boost your students’ pride in their own identities with today’s text!

M is for Melanin, by Tiffany Rose, is the first alphabet book we’ve featured on LitCentric Radio. But this isn’t any ordinary ABC text. This book sends a clear message to all children that they are amazing just the way they are, and that it’s the rest of the world that needs to adjust.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#59 Counting On Katherine Dec 21, 2020

There’s nothing like a text set to deepen comprehension!

Counting On Katherine, by Helaine Becker, illustrated by Dow Phumiruk, is the inspiring story of Katherine Johnson, the celebrated NASA mathematician. We’ll use several texts today to support students’ comprehension and learn even more about this American hero.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#58 Last Stop On Market Street Dec 07, 2020

Have you ever explored character values? We’re diving in today!

Last Stop On Market Street, by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson, has become a classroom classic, even though it’s only been around for a short time. In it, de la Peña conveys character values in a beautifully balanced way that helps kids approach the embedded layer of meaning that we need to access in order to successfully infer.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#57 Peter's Chair Nov 23, 2020

Plot development is where it’s at in today’s episode!

Peter’s Chair, by Ezra Jack Keats, is a classic text that all students should read. Peter is a young boy who has just become a big brother and he’s learning how to handle change in his own way. In today’s lesson we’ll look for opportunities to develop the plot further, just like students need to do in their own writing.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Digital Magnetic Letters - lowercase:

https://litcentric.podia.com/digital-magnetic-letters

Digital Magnetic Letters - uppercase:

https://litcentric.podia.com/digital-uppercase-magnetic-letters

Making and Breaking Words kit:

https://litcentric.podia.com/making-and-breaking-words

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#56 The Word Collector Nov 09, 2020

Today we’re exploring excellent, wonderful, marvelous synonyms!

The Word Collector, by Peter H. Reynolds, introduces readers to Jerome - a boy who loves words so much that he collects them. We’ll piggyback on this admiration by having some word fun of our own. Today’s lesson is a great one for introducing synonyms for the first time, or for nudging students to use synonyms to spice up their writing.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Literacy Today article:

http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/a577adea#/a577adea/18

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#55 Parker Looks Up Oct 26, 2020

Today we’re expanding vocabulary with descriptions!

Parker Looks Up: An Extraordinary Moment, by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry, illustrated by Brittany Jackson, is the recount of a family outing that went viral. When preschooler Parker Curry stumbles upon a particular painting at the museum her whole world changes. In today’s lesson we’ll use famous works of art to build vocabulary in order to write better descriptions.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

The Key to a Better Reading Intervention Program:

http://litcentric.com/blog/better-reading-intervention-program/

New York Times article:

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/12/opinion/michelle-obama-portrait-sherald-parker.html

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#54 Boy Oh Boy Oct 12, 2020

We’re setting the pace in today’s episode!

Boy Oh Boy, by Cliff Leek, illustrated by Bene Rohlmann, is a collection of 30 inspiring biographies about diverse, fascinating men. In today’s lesson we’ll teach students how to analyze pacing in a piece of writing and how content and importance drive an author’s decision making process.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#53 Hair Love Sep 28, 2020

There’s a lot of love, and differences, in today’s episode!

Hair Love, by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison, is a story about a family’s enduring love and devotion, as told through real life challenges. We’ll compare the book to the Oscar-winning short film of the same name to reveal significant differences between the two.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Watch brief Running Record refresh videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIdk0ZCwiZU&list=PLq3mWBE22_YkhHd4MtakkTpx9P0qNEvBa

Watch Hair Love:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNw8V_Fkw28

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#52 Gaston Sep 14, 2020

Learn some reasons why authors use repetition in today’s episode!

Gaston, by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Christian Robinson, is the most adorable book of the decade! It’s cute, it’s smart, it’s delightful. And it’ll teach students a thing or two about using repetition in smart ways. Oh, and did I mention it’s adorable?

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Watch the free webinar: Teaching Guided Reading Remotely

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_yzCAkWvDI&t=152s

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#51 The Doctor With An Eye for Eyes Aug 31, 2020

Who? What? We’re asking questions today!

The Doctor With An Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath, by Julia Finely Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley, is a unique hybrid genre of biography and poetry. In this text readers learn all about Dr. Bath and the obstacles she overcame in order to achieve her goals. We also learn Dr. Bath’s approach to tackling each day with a question.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Watch the free webinar: How to Teach Writing Virtually in a Distance or Hybrid Learning Model:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Zl_nZSaX_s&t=65s

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#50 The Proudest Blue Aug 17, 2020

Let’s all try to personify!

The Proudest Blue, by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly, is a story of bravery and dignity told through the eyes of a admiring younger sister. Learn how a single sentence using personification can be used as a jumping off point for better descriptions, and a more inclusive classroom community.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Get your special offer of 25% off all Sound-Along reading products with the coupon code RADIO50. Offer expires August 21, 2020: https://litcentric.podia.com/reading

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#49 Saturday Aug 03, 2020

Building character and resilience to start the school year!

Saturday, by Oge Mora, shares the special bond of a mother and daughter as they enjoy their favorite day. But can they bounce back from the setbacks they face? Find out how Ava and her mother learn to be resilient together, and how your students can too.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 5 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

Welcome Back Jul 29, 2020

I’m so excited to be starting Season 5 here at LitCentric Radio! We’ll be dropping new episodes every other Monday starting on August 3, 2020. Don’t forget to follow LitCentric on social media and become a LitCentric Insider by joining the email newsletter list. Just log on to LitCentric.com, scroll half way down the homepage, and click the link to join. LitCentric Insiders get exclusive freebies, offers, and more - don’t wait to sign up. Next week’s lesson in Episode #49 is free, but only to LitCentric Insiders!

Here’s a link to a free video that will help you transform any LitCentric Radio lesson into a remote learning experience. Subscribe to LitCentric’s YouTube channel and watch Remote Learning in 4 Steps with Lessons from the Hit Podcast LitCentric Radio. The video is free, the lesson is free, the tools are free. Now get watching!

And don’t forget to tell a teacher friend about LitCentric Radio so you can listen together this year. I’m so excited about the book lineup I have in store for you for Season 5. You won’t want to miss it!

Have a great day at school :)

#48 Just Like Rube Goldberg May 18, 2020

Persuade and explain Rube Goldberg style!

Just Like Rube Goldberg, by Sarah Aronson, illustrated by Robert Neubecker, shares so many interesting facts about this incredible artist. Did you know he survived the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906? Listen and learn about Rube Goldberg and get students inspired to try out ideas of their own - it won’t be difficult!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#47 Bread and Jam for Frances May 11, 2020

Making predictions with a classic!

Bread and Jam for Frances, by Russell Hoban, illustrated by Lillian Hoban, checks all the boxes for an adorable read aloud that students can totally relate to. You’ll fall in love with Frances the singing badger, and with how the text’s logical plot and timeless topic support students in making evidence-based predictions.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#46 Just In Case You Want to Fly May 04, 2020

Let’s write a class book together!

Just in Case You Want to Fly, by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Christian Robinson, takes ordinary things you and I might dismiss and elevates their importance, giving them a new life. We can use a similar approach to create a class poem that stretches our imaginations.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#45 The Invisible Boy Apr 27, 2020

A lesson we all need right about now…

The Invisible Boy, by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Patrice Barton, shines a light on experiences we’ve all had feeling invisible, and demonstrates how small acts of kindness pay off in big, big ways. We’ll focus students on analyzing plot events and exercising empathy to generate positive changes in the world.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#44 Gentle Giant Octopus Apr 21, 2020

Think narrative nonfiction is too tricky to teach young writers? Nah!

Gentle Giant Octopus, by Karen Wallace, illustrated by Mike Bostock, is a beautiful example of narrative nonfiction that switches seamlessly between the two genres. A stunning book full of challenging language students need to master, and a lesson to help them do it!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#43 Balloons Over Broadway Apr 13, 2020

Writing instructions: This is how we do it! Balloons Over Broadway, by Melissa Sweet, is a well-paced biography about a famous man you’ve never heard about before. Your students will be fascinated by his accomplishments and will be inspired to write and create works of their own. Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco: https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#42 Extra Yarn Apr 06, 2020

How characters respond to plot is everything! Extra Yarn, by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen, offers a unique story with beautiful simplicity. The plot structure is interesting but it’s the responses of the main character that are worthy of analysis. Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco: https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#41 The King of Kindergarten Mar 30, 2020

We’re adding a descriptive layer to personal narratives to make them worthy of rereading! The King of Kindergarten, by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, is such a confidence booster. It’s easy to see why it makes a great read aloud for the beginning of the school year, but this text is magnificent any time. Pull up a seat at the round table and give it the royal treatment! Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco: https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#40 Rosie Revere, Engineer Mar 23, 2020

The power of words and propaganda - yep, we’re going there!

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts, uses the power of poetry, rhyme, and Rosie the Riveter to spin an uplifting tale of creativity, innovation, and perseverance. As Rosie listens to powerful words she learns of her own power within.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#39 Humphrey the Lost Whale Mar 16, 2020

Nonfiction doesn’t have to be dry! Humphrey the Lost Whale, by Wendy Tokuda and Richard Hall, illustrated by Hanako Wakiyama, is a captivating and compelling true story of a humpback whale who ended up in fresh-water riverbed - in my backyard! Students will be in awe of this nonfiction narrative and you’ll all be rooting for Humphrey to get back home. Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco: https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#38 Dear Bear Mar 09, 2020

Form follows function when it comes to letter writing. Dear Bear, by Joanna Harrison, taps into common experiences and feelings your students have likely had. I also love it for how it exposes students to the many purposes behind writing a letter. From making requests, to asking questions, to extending an invitation - letters are an important form of communication our students need to master. Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco: https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#37 Me...Jane Mar 02, 2020

Sequencing, and then some!

Me...Jane, by Patrick McDonnell, brings biography down to size in a totally approachable way. You’ll root for Jane and her dream coming true - and that’s only the beginning of the story! Students will explore how to determine importance when sequencing to create a timeline of Dr. Jane Goodall’s impressive and inspiring accomplishments.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

LitCentric Radio Season 4 is generously sponsored by Book Taco:

https://booktaco.com/welcome-librarians/

#36 Chicks and Salsa Feb 24, 2020

Awesome, amazing alliteration in this week’s episode! Chicks and Salsa, by Aaron Reynolds and illustrated by Paulette Bogan, is silly, and savory, and special all rolled into one. We explore alliteration and have a lot of fun doing it with this text! Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#35 Henri Matisse: Drawing With Scissors Feb 17, 2020

Biography doesn’t have to be boring! Henri Matisse: Drawing With Scissors, by Jane O’Connor and illustrated by Jessie Hartland, proves that biographies can be fun to read and fun to write. Told in first person by an elementary student, this text makes biography approachable and doable. Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text. Try this lesson in your class tomorrow: https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#34 My Papi Has a Motorcycle Feb 10, 2020

Idea maps can help shape our perspectives in writing.

My Papi Has a Motorcycle, by Isabel Quintero, brings all the feels! Memories of times gone by can be rich resources for writing personal narratives. Learn how in today’s episode!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#33 The Thing About Bees: A Love Letter Feb 03, 2020

Turning facts into metaphors on today’s episode!

The Thing About Bees: A Love Letter, by Shabazz Larkin, is a beautiful blend of genres, information, figurative language, and gratitude. Your students will learn a lot, and play a lot, with the delightful words and pictures in this book.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#32 Meanwhile Jan 27, 2020

Make writing more sophisticated with transitions!

It’s amazing how polished student writing can sound when transitional words and phrases are used in all the right places. Meanwhile, by Jules Feiffer, is an all time favorite book for introducing them. It’s quirky, and zany, and so much fun to read aloud. Kids get drawn in from the very first ‘meanwhile’.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#31 Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! Jan 20, 2020

What’s a growing plot? Find out in this episode!

Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! by Candace Fleming, illustrated by G. Brian Karas, is full of both obvious and subtle changes that make the growing plot a lot of fun. Students can try out the technique for themselves in LitCentric Radio’s matching lesson!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#30 Boy + Bot Jan 13, 2020

Shifts in point of view make for a fun plot!

Boy + Bot by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Dan Yaccarino, uses repetition and its characters’ unique perspectives to charm and delight us. Even the youngest readers will be in on the joke!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#29 The Day You Begin Jan 06, 2020

Exploring tiny moments, this week on LitCentric Radio!

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael Lopez, will give you all the feels! It’s the perfect book for building your writing community because it demonstrates the beauty in our differences and the value of human connection. We’ll take a look at how figurative language can be used to help tiny moment blossom.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Replay #10 The Dot Dec 30, 2019

Episode #10 originally aired on May 13, 2019.

Practice empathy in this episode as we explore what makes a character tick.

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is a text you’ll truly fall in love with - from the first moment you meet the main character, to her relatable problem, and the remarkable conclusion. Listen as we explore what the character says, what she does, what she thinks, and what she feels.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Replay #4 Library Lion Dec 23, 2019

Episode #4 originally aired on April 1, 2019.

Yes! Your students can learn to analyze text!

Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes, is a charming tale of curiosity, empathy, and understanding. The traditional-style illustrations are endearing as is the lion himself.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#28 Game Changers Dec 16, 2019

“Whatever you become, you become in your head first.”

Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome, is a powerful text that will knock your socks off! As informative as it is inspiring, it will leave you with a sense of wonder. And hey, why not explore character traits with real-life heroes?

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#27 We Don't Eat Our Classmates Dec 09, 2019

Pictures help us analyze text and write independently!

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins is a beloved read loud with a powerful lesson on perspective. We’ll support students to analyze the fictional narrative structure of this text to go beyond the lesson it teaches and include some sophistication that even the youngest writers can handle.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#26 Jabari Jumps Dec 02, 2019

We’re exploring empathy with evidence on today’s episode.

Everybody loves Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall. Today we’ll use this inspiring text to explore how Jabari’s father shows empathy toward his son, and we’ll find evidence along the way.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Replay #9 Pattern Fish Nov 25, 2019

Episode #9 originally aired on May 6, 2019.

Sentence fluency abounds in this light hearted text that invites writers to craft versions of their own.

Pattern Fish by Trudy Harris is a playful book with just a hint of plot but a whole lot of spirit. Explore poetic phrases and patterns as your students chant along.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#25 Not Quite Snow White Nov 18, 2019

Acting out descriptions with adverbs!

Not Quite Snow White by Ashley Franklin, illustrated by Ebony Glenn, shares an important message of belonging and self-worth through a character everyone will love. This text offers a fun opportunity to explore descriptive language through music and movement. You won’t want to miss it!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Bonus Episode Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon Nov 11, 2019

Today we revisit our most popular episode in season 1 featuring the text Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon from Episode #12.

We’re sharing some text dependent questions that invite discussion and a bridge chart with a challenging writing task. All new!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

Bonus Episode Enemy Pie Nov 04, 2019

Today we revisit our most popular episode featuring the text Enemy Pie from Episode #13.

We’re sharing the text dependent questions that go along with the book and talk about an easy 3-step guide for crafting better text dependent questions to improve comprehension.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#24 What’s the Difference? 10 Animal Look-Alikes Oct 28, 2019

Compare and contrast in a neat package!

What’s the Difference? 10 Animal Look-Alikes By Judy Diehl and David Plumb, illustrated by Vlasta Kampen, is packed with information that will hold your students’ interest. This text offers teachers the opportunity to explore compare and contrast language in bite-sized chunks that are accessible to all.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#23 Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut Oct 21, 2019

The ordinary becomes extraordinary this week!

Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James, should be on every bookshelf. Period. The words and pictures are a dream, and they take the concept of theme to a whole new level.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#22 A Small Thing...but Big Oct 14, 2019

Everyday things can be so special, and this book is a great example.

A Small Thing...but Big by Tony Johnston, pictures by Hadley Hooper, sheds light on what seems to be a typical day at the park. But victories await as we explore its unique organization.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#21 Germs Make Me Sick Oct 07, 2019

My #literacycrush Levar Burton says this book is a winner. And I agree!

Germs Make Me Sick by Melvin Berger, illustrated by Marylin Hafner, first appeared on my radar as a kid watching Reading Rainbow after school. This book is packed with information that’s played out in an aproachable way using narrative nonfiction.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#20 The Perfect Nest Sep 30, 2019

Never heard of a pattern of 3? Stay tuned!

The Perfect Nest by Catherine Friend, illustrated by John Manders is so much fun! Get your accents ready because this read aloud is an experience! And the multiple patterns of 3 pop up everywhere you look.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#19 Mrs. Morgan’s Lawn Sep 23, 2019

In short, we’re talking summarizing! ;)

Mrs. Morgan’s Lawn by Barney Saltzberg is a book my classroom would never be without. We’re talking serious possibilities for teaching problem/solution, flashbacks and imagination, surprise endings, and more. Today we’ll cut through the clutter and teach summary.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#18 The Night I Followed the Dog Sep 16, 2019

A book full of surprises!

The Night I Followed the Dog by Nina Laden lets kids’ imaginations run wild! We’ll use their fantastic ideas and try out a brief write in today’s lesson.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#17 What Athletes Are Made Of Sep 09, 2019

You’ve never seen biography presented like this!

What Athletes Are Made Of by Hanoch Piven is one of several books he’s done with his unique twist. He combines found objects and brings them to life through his mini-biographical style. We’ll take a closer look at the patterns in his work that will improve biographical writing in today’s episode.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#16 My Very Own Octopus Sep 02, 2019

Opinion writing will improve in your classroom with another fabulous text by a beloved author.

My Very Own Octopus by Bernard Most is clever and creative, and gives students permission to write in a similar way. We’ll take a closer look at providing evidence-based reasons and use video to do it!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#15 Knuffle Bunny Aug 26, 2019

Our old buddy Mo is back, this time helping us teach conventions like only he can!

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems always delights. Do we ever get tired of sharing it with kids? No way! In this episode we’re getting busy with periods, commas, ellipses...and more! It’ll be fun, I promise!

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#14 On Monday When It Rained Aug 19, 2019

Explore emotions with this week’s text!

On Monday When It Rained by Cherryl Kachenmeister, photographs by Tom Berthiaume, is a wonderful tool for social emotional learning. We’ll combine feelings and personal narrative in a bridge chart to help students write pieces of their own.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Download your copy of the Sound-Along Alphabet Readiness Table to see where your students are starting their journey into literacy:

https://litcentric.podia.com/sound-along-alphabet-program

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#13 Enemy Pie Aug 12, 2019

Have some fun with sentences! No, really...more fluent sentences are on the horizon this week!

Enemy Pie by Derek Munson, illustrated by Tara King, seems to be on everyone’s back-to-school reading list. Not only is the message of friendship a valuable one, it’s also a great book to combine playful predictions with a bit of poetry tossed in.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#12 Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon May 27, 2019

What tools can we use to uncover the author’s message in a treasured story? Find out right now!

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell offers a unique character who advances the plot in interesting ways. Learn what the author really wants us to know about Molly Lou and about ourselves.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#11 Harry the Dirty Dog May 20, 2019

50 years of Harry and we still can’t get enough! Listen in to learn about a unique way to make predictions and fix them when you’re wrong.

Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion is a book many of us grew up with, and for good reason. Join Harry on his adventure through town as students make and change predictions along the way.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#10 The Dot May 13, 2019

Practice empathy in this episode as we explore what makes a character tick.

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is a text you’ll truly fall in love with - from the first moment you meet the main character, to her relatable problem, and the remarkable conclusion. Listen as we explore what the characters says, what she does, what she thinks, and what she feels.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#9 Pattern Fish May 06, 2019

Sentence fluency abounds in this light hearted text that invites writers to craft versions of their own.

Pattern Fish by Trudy Harris is a playful book with just a hint of plot but a whole lot of spirit. Explore poetic phrases and patterns as your students chant along.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#8 Imogene's Antlers Apr 29, 2019

A spiral story is waiting for you in today’s episode!

Imogene’s Antlers by David Small tells the unlikely story of one day waking up with a serious problem, and the interesting ways the characters go about solving it. This mentor text offers a unique organizational style you’ll want to tell your students about.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#7 Caps for Sale Apr 22, 2019

This time honored classic still has lessons to teach us about organization and retelling.

Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina takes us back to simpler times when a peddler sold his wares. The surprises in store still delight children, and the clear-cut organization and plot makes this text ideal for retelling.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#6 The Recess Queen Apr 15, 2019

Listen for examples of cause and effect and what the responses characters have to one another can teach us.

The Recess Queen, by Alexis O’neill and illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith, combines delightful, creative language with the seriousness of a school yard bully. One character’s ingenuity provides a lesson for us all.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#5 From Tadpole to Frog Apr 08, 2019

Let's talk sentence coherence!

From Tadpole to Frog by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld is a science reader that keeps readers engaged with up close photographs, just enough informational text, and consistent text features that support comprehension.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#4 Library Lion Apr 01, 2019

Yes! Your students can learn to analyze text!

Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes, is a charming tale of curiosity, empathy, and understanding. The traditional-style illustrations are endearing as is the lion himself.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#3 Unlovable Mar 25, 2019

Students can map changes throughout a text using turning points to infer meaning.

Unlovable by Dan Yaccarino is a simple story with a surprising twist. Alfred the pug is a character your students will identify with, no matter their age.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#2 Surprising Sharks Mar 18, 2019

We're getting creative with informational writing!

Surprising Sharks by Nicola Davies and illustrated by James Croft offers readers a creative exploration of shark facts with unique illustrations, strong organization, and a presentation that hooks readers from the start.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#1 Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus Mar 18, 2019

Welcome to the first episode of LitCentric Radio - an all new podcast designed for elementary teachers who love literacy.

Today we're exploring persuasion in six different ways. Really!

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems is a highly engaging call-and-response text that students can’t help but respond to.

Join National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb as she describes the teaching possibilities hidden inside this treasured mentor text.

Try this lesson in your class tomorrow:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

#0 New to LitCentric Radio? Start Here! Mar 12, 2019

Welcome to LitCentric Radio! An all new podcast designed for elementary teachers who love literacy.

In this episode your host, National Board Certified Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach Dr. Julie Webb, explains what you can expect from LitCentric Radio episodes.

Learn about a different mentor text each week and get a fresh teaching idea to support your reading and writing instruction.

Find all the lessons we've featured on the show in LitCentric Radio's growing lesson bundle:

https://litcentric.podia.com/litcentric-radio-lessons-growing-bundle

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