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Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D.
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Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D.

Professor of Literacy Education at Kent State University

“Phonics is the topic that we focus on when we talk about the Science of Reading, but fluency has got to be part of that equation as well.”


Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D., Professor of Literacy Education at Kent State University, joins us for an inspiring conversation about the importance of developing reading fluency as part of effective literacy instruction. Having written over 200 articles and 50 books, he brings a wealth of knowledge and insights into how fluency acts as the critical bridge between decoding and comprehension.


Key Takeaways:

  • - Understanding Fluency: Fluency is not just about speed; it encompasses automaticity in word recognition and prosody, which reflects expression in reading.
  • - The Art of Teaching Fluency: Effective fluency instruction combines scientific strategies with creative teaching methods to engage students.
  • - Repeated Reading and its Impact:Repeated practice improves specific text fluency and enhances general reading abilities.
  • - Home and School Collaboration: It is crucial to engage parents in their children’s reading development. Simple strategies, like reading and discussing poetry at home, can make a significant difference.
  • - The Future of Reading Instruction: Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D. emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach beyond phonics to include motivation and cognition, integrating the art of teaching with the science of reading.




Important Timestamps:

00:00 - Timothy Rasinski's journey from economics to literacy education

05:30 - The misunderstood aspects of fluency 

08:25 - Discussion on the effectiveness of repeated reading practice

15:36 - The impact of balanced daily reading instruction

19:30 - Practical tips for parents to support reading fluency at home

27:55 - Comprehensive elements of the Science of Reading research and the future of literacy instruction


Connect with Timothy Rasinski, Ph.D. 

E-mail:  trasinsk@kent.edu 
Website:  https://www.timrasinski.com/
X:  @timrasinski1




Meet Our Co-Hosts

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Dr. Christy Lamb

Director of Partnerships | Just Right Reader

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Dr. Christy Lamb is a Director of Partnerships with Just Right Reader. She has served as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and principal in public schools in the Kansas City, MO area. She has also worked with Marzano Research in education improvement, serving districts across the country in literacy and leadership. Christy is passionate about supporting building leaders through her co-hosted podcast and platform, The Modern Principal. Having the opportunity to talk to researchers and district leaders on The Science of Reading Leadership Podcast merges her passions of literacy, leadership, and developing others.

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Terri K. Hunt, M.Ed.

Impact Manager | Just Right Reader

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Terri K. Hunt, M.Ed. creates content for students and teachers that is both diverse and engaging. Her mission as a professional is to teach well and lead the way. At her core, Terri is a teacher who takes great pride in the role she plays in the life of every learner. With over 20 years of experience in education, Terri has engaged a wide range of learners from the elementary classroom to the professional development of instructional leaders. Terri obtained her undergraduate degree in education from Oakwood University (formerly Oakwood College) and her graduate degree in educational psychology from the University of Georgia. She holds a gifted endorsement as well as a reading certification.