For 30 years, I’ve read the research, rolled up my sleeves, and worked side by side with teachers and students trying to solve one central challenge:

How do we help students move from knowing word-study information to actually using it — consistently, confidently, and independently — in reading and writing?

After decades of study, reflection, and classroom work, I’ve identified five vital practices that help word study truly stick.

Today, I’m sharing two resources to kick off a brand-new series:

1️⃣ An open-access article

It lays out the big picture, the research, and the “why” behind this work.

2️⃣ A detailed Substack deep dive

This is the first installment of a 5-part series, designed to give you practical action steps you can use right away.

▶️ And here’s the exciting part: Over the next four weeks, I’ll release one new installment each week, with clear examples, routines, and guidance on each of the five practices.

This series is a shortcut to clarity — the kind that usually takes years of messy classroom trial, deep research, and thoughtful collaboration.

If you have a question or want help applying these ideas in your school, just reply. I promise you’ll get an answer.

Here’s the first deep dive:

More coming every week. I’m so glad you’re here.

— Leah