Word Study for Literacy Leaders

This book explores word study as a developmentally based approach to teaching phonics, spelling, and vocabulary, grounded in the influential model developed by Henderson and colleagues. Recognizing the reciprocal relationship between reading and writing, the word study approach integrates phonics, spelling, and vocabulary into cohesive literacy instruction. Responding to educators’ requests for practical guidance, this volume offers concrete examples of how teachers organize and implement word study in classrooms, as well as how literacy leaders and teacher educators support professional learning in schools and universities. Through authentic classroom conversations, professional learning community examples, and coaching scenarios, the book demonstrates how word study can be effectively implemented to meet the diverse needs of students across educational contexts.

Key Features:

• Grounded in a developmental model of word study by Henderson and colleagues
• Integrates phonics, spelling, and vocabulary through reading–writing connections
• Provides practical classroom examples of organizing and implementing word study
• Showcases professional learning communities and coaching scenarios
• Highlights the role of literacy leaders and teacher educators in supporting instruction
• Applicable across diverse educational settings
• Focuses on making word study effective and meaningful for students