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Why Morphology Matters for Word Reading and More with Melissa Orkin and Alex Osburn

Melissa & Lori Love Literacy ® | Science of Reading for Teachers

Melissa & Lori Love Literacy ® | Science of Reading for Teachers
Why Morphology Matters for Word Reading and More with Melissa Orkin and Alex Osburn
Oct 24, 2025

Episode 238 

What if the “secret sauce” to reading big words isn’t just syllables, but also morphemes? In this episode, Melissa Orkin and Alex Osburn share why morphology is essential, especially in grades 3–6, and how it bridges word reading, vocabulary, and comprehension.

They dig into practical strategies for teaching morphology, from explicit routines to vocabulary activities like the Frayer model, and show how to weave it all into real texts so students connect meaning to print in powerful ways. You’ll hear how morphology instruction can be integrated with content areas, supported by oral language practice, and used to spark stronger engagement and deeper learning.

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