Recommendations and reviews
Books, websites, research papers, podcasts – if you’re looking for useful information about literacy for older children and teenagers, The Literacy Hub is a great place to start!
There is a bewildering array of education resources out there, and some are better quality and more relevant than others. That’s why I’ve created a searchable collection of reviews, with a focus on resources that are relevant to teaching literacy to older children and teenagers.
Whether you want tips for supporting pupils with dyslexia, an introduction to the psychology of reading, or a guide to English spelling, The Literacy Hub can help you identify resources that contain the information you need.
For quick round-up of the The Literacy Hub’s best picks for each topic, search for Top Recommendations using the Topic filter.
I regularly update these recommendations as I come across new resources, and I’m continuing to revisit the best picks from my literacy teaching collection. If you think there’s a great resource that I’ve missed, please let me know!
And, since I know that many literacy educators just really love words, I’ve included some recommendations for pure word-loving enjoyment! You can find these under the Topic Word nerd fun.
Language at the Speed of Sight
A detailed introduction to the psychology of reading from cognitive, computational and neuroscience perspectives
The Dictionary of Lost Words
An enjoyable and thought-provoking novel set amidst the lexicographers of the Oxford English Dictionary
Top recommendations for teaching spelling
It can be hard to find good books about teaching spelling. Look here for The Literacy Hub’s top picks!
Top etymology recommendations for teachers of literacy
If you’re a teacher of literacy who’d like to improve your knowledge of etymology, take a look at these resources
Why Q Needs U
An illuminating, enjoyable and superbly-written journey through the history of the alphabet
The Prodigal Tongue
A fun, fast-paced and informed discussion of the differences between British and American English, including plenty of myth-busting
Teaching Reading To All Learners Including Those With Complex Needs
Insights into how to use an inclusive approach to teach reading to pupils with a range of complex needs
Closing the Vocabulary Gap
An introduction to why teaching vocabulary is important, and some practical suggestions for ‘closing the vocabulary gap’