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

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. Resources Mentioned Video of the Lesson highlighted in the episode. From Morphology Anthology: Volume 3, Lesson 3: The Secret Lives of Rainforest Insects. Book: The Structured Literacy Playbook: Preplanned Lessons for Building Phonics and Fluency Skills If you’re enjoying Melissa & Lori Love Literacy , bring us to your school or event. We offer keynotes, presentations, and live podcast-style sessions focused on practical, science of reading–aligned strategies aligned to our podcast and book, The Literacy 50 . Email LiteracyPodcast@greatminds.org to learn more. Get free resources and updates at literacypodcast.com .

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Why Morphology Matters for Word Reading and More with Melissa Orkin and Alex Osburn is an episode from Melissa and Lori Love Literacy by Supported by Great Minds .

This episode is 70:03 long.

This episode was published on Oct 24, 2025.

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