Episode Details

In this conversation, Michelle is joined by literacy advocate and author Yvette Manns to explore the power of read-alouds: both for instruction and for joy.

Key Takeaways:

1. The difference between reading for pleasure and instructional read-alouds
2. How read-alouds build oral language, vocabulary, and connection
3. Practical instructional moves to make read-alouds more impactful
4. The TAPES Method (Tell, Act, Point, Explain, Show) for vocabulary instruction
5. The origin story of the Phonics Read Alouds series
6. Information on how to celebrate National Schwa Day on April 7th!
7. The launch of a brand-new Morphology Read-Aloud series

This episode is both inspiring and deeply practical, full of classroom-ready ideas.

Phonics Read-Alouds

Created by Yvette Manns, the Phonics Read Alouds series blends explicit phonics instruction with rich storytelling. Characters like Bossy R, Magic E, and the Schwa bring abstract phonics concepts to life.

1. Website: www.phonicsreadalouds.com
2. Instagram: @phonicsreadalouds

National Schwa Day

Founded by Yvette Manns, National Schwa Day is celebrated annually on April 7th.

Why April 7th? Listen to the episode to hear the reasoning behind it!

What you’ll find in the free Educator Guide:

1. Classroom activities
2. Schwa parade word cards
3. Digital blending board activities (sponsored by Blend)
4. Celebration ideas

Download the FREE Educator guide: www.nationalschwaday.org

Exciting News: Morphology Read-Aloud Series

Michelle and Yvette announce the launch of a brand-new Morphology Read Aloud collection — beginning with:

The Always-Finished Suffix -ED

This story brings the three sounds of -ed to life through time travel, character development, and embedded word study.

🎉 Use code COLORFUL1 for 15% off (valid through 4/26/26)!

Additional Books Mentioned:

1. Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters by John Steptoe

2. Listen Now