Advanced Word Study:

an instructional bridge between decoding and comprehension that emphasizes the explicit teaching of complex phonics patterns and morphology.

The benefits:

  • Explanation:
    Morphological instruction improves spelling by helping students understand the structure and logic of English spelling patterns, rather than relying solely on memorization.
    Citation:
    Goodwin, A. P., & Ahn, S. (2010). A meta-analysis of morphological interventions: Effects on literacy achievement of children with literacy difficulties.

  • Explanation:
    Advanced Word Study builds morphological awareness, enabling students to infer the meanings of unfamiliar words by analyzing roots and affixes—an essential skill for vocabulary growth in upper elementary grades.
    Citation:
    Nagy, W., Berninger, V., & Abbott, R. (2006). Contributions of morphology beyond phonology to literacy outcomes of upper elementary and middle-school students.

  • Explanation:
    Understanding how words are constructed supports comprehension, especially in content-rich texts, by helping students connect word parts to meaning.
    Citation:
    Carlisle, J. F. (2010). Effects of instruction in morphological awareness on literacy achievement: An integrative review.

About the Program

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About the Program 〰️

Component 1

The Teacher’s Guide

Key Lesson Components:

  • Engaging Hook:
    Start with familiar words to spark curiosity about word structure.

  • Explicit Instruction:
    Teach the root and it’s fascinating history.

  • Vocabulary Development:
    Focus on high-utility examples using the unit slide deck.

  • Guided Practice:
    Students complete Morpheme Ladder puzzles that deepen understanding of word formation.

  • Independent Application:
    Students practice with word sums and using the new vocabulary in context.

  • Review & Exit Ticket:
    Lesson wraps with a quick reflection where students reflect on new learning.

Component 2

Pattern Slide Decks

Key Components & Benefits:

  • Provides Consistent, Explicit Instruction
    Students receive clear, direct teaching of word meanings, parts of speech, and morpheme function—key for literacy growth.

  • Strengthens Word Knowledge Across Content Areas
    Instruction targets high-utility morphemes and academic vocabulary that students encounter in science, social studies, and math.

  • Reinforces Meaning-Based Word Study
    Students learn how words are formed and what they mean—supporting deeper comprehension and more strategic reading.

  • Supports All Learners
    Structured and scaffolded vocabulary instruction supports students with language-based learning differences while benefiting all students.

  • Saves Teacher Prep Time
    Ready-to-use slide decks reduce planning and prep time, ensuring high-quality instruction without the overwhelm.

  • Promotes Student Engagement & Confidence
    Visuals, examples, and guided practice make vocabulary instruction interactive and accessible—helping students take ownership of new words.

Component 3

Morpheme Ladders

Key Components & Benefits:

  • Deepens Morphemic Awareness
    Students explore how prefixes, roots, and suffixes combine to form meaning—building their ability to analyze and decode unfamiliar words.

  • Builds Word Families and Semantic Connections
    Students discover how related words share morphemes and meanings—supporting vocabulary expansion and flexible word use.

Component 4

Student Practice

Key Components & Benefits:

  • Reinforces Vocabulary Through Application
    By using new words in context, students move from passive recognition to active understanding and usage.

  • Provides Embedded Review and Repetition
    Students repeatedly encounter and manipulate target morphemes in varied contexts—solidifying long-term retention.

Component 5

Morphology Bulletin Board

Key Components & Benefits:

  • Promotes Ongoing Visual Reinforcement
    Students see morphemes and example words daily, which strengthens memory through repeated exposure.

  • Supports Independent Word Solving
    Having roots, prefixes, and suffixes visibly posted encourages students to independently break down unfamiliar words across subjects.

  • Connects Instruction Across Units
    Morphemes learned in different lessons are visibly linked, helping students see recurring patterns and build word families.

  • Saves Time and Strengthens Routines
    Reduces repeated teacher explanations—students can refer to the wall during reading, writing, and vocabulary work.