Ever feel like phonics just isn’t enough to help your students tackle bigger words? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, we’re joined by literacy coach Michelle Sullivan to explore why morphology—yes, even in K–2—is the missing link in your literacy block. She shares easy-to-implement strategies that help kids understand how words work—without overwhelming them (or you). If you’re ready to make word study more meaningful, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
- Why introducing morphology in primary grades is essential—not optional.
- The difference between teaching phonics and teaching word structure.
- What a “colorful classroom” really means (hint: it’s not about bulletin boards).
- Easy ways to start using base words, suffixes, and prefixes with young learners.
- How to integrate morphology, phonics, and vocabulary for deeper comprehension.
Show Links
Michelle's Website / Podcast / Instagram / TPT Shop
Mastering Morphology Course (Logos Literacy Academy on IG)
ABCs of Morphology Reference Sheet
Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know
Join Malia on Instagram.
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!
Rate, Review, and Follow
If you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.
Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!
While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out!
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.