2024 ALTA National Conference: Laura Steward. "The Heavy Hitters of Intermediate Literacy: Multisyllabic Decoding and Morphology"

Unpacking the Heavy Hitters of Intermediate Literacy: Multisyllabic Decoding and Morphology

At the 2024 ALTA conference, one of the standout sessions was led by Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer of the 95 Percent Group, where she delved into the critical aspects of intermediate literacy: multisyllabic decoding and morphology. Stewart emphasized the importance of these skills in enabling students to navigate complex texts with accuracy, fluency, and comprehension.

Reading in the Intermediate Grades

Stewart stressed the multifaceted approach required for effective reading instruction in intermediate grades. This includes building background knowledge, fluency-building, comprehension strategies, rich discussions, and crucially, a word-study component. She referenced "The What Works Practice Guide" to underscore the significance of these elements.

Why Multisyllabic Decoding and Morphology Matter

The session highlighted the staggering number of multisyllabic words students encounter annually and the lack of strategies for decoding them. Without proficiency in multisyllabic decoding, comprehension suffers. Similarly, understanding morphology—the structure and meaning of words—impacts vocabulary growth and, consequently, comprehension and writing skills.

Explicit Instruction for All Students

Stewart echoed the sentiment that explicit instruction in decoding and morphology is essential beyond the early grades. Students need ongoing support to master these skills and effectively decode complex words, ultimately enhancing their reading, spelling, and comprehension abilities.

Practical Applications in the Classroom

Throughout the session, Stewart provided practical examples and activities for teaching multisyllabic decoding and morphology. From warm-up exercises like word chains and pattern recognition to structured word work activities and reading passages, educators gained insights into how to implement these strategies effectively.

Connecting with Students

By integrating activities that cater to diverse learning styles and providing ample opportunities for practice and application, educators can better engage students in the learning process. Moreover, by linking word study to real-world contexts, such as understanding the geological processes shaping landscapes, educators can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for language.

Reflections and Takeaways

The session underscored the importance of continued word work in intermediate grades and provided educators with practical strategies to support students’ literacy development. By prioritizing multisyllabic decoding and morphology instruction, educators can equip students with the tools they need to navigate increasingly complex texts with confidence and comprehension.

In conclusion, Stewart’s session served as a valuable reminder of the critical role multisyllabic decoding and morphology play in fostering literacy skills in intermediate students, offering practical insights and strategies for educators to implement in their classrooms.

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