S7 E4 – The Top 5 Mistakes We Make When Using Decodable Texts

S7 E4 – The Top 5 Mistakes We Make When Using Decodable Texts

From The Structured Literacy Podcast by Jocelyn Seamer

February 21, 2026 · 25 min · Season 7 · Episode 4

About this episode

The episode discusses common mistakes in using decodable texts and offers strategies for effective reading instruction.

We unpack how to use decodable texts with precision so beginners practise the code instead of guessing. We share the biggest mistakes schools make, how to spot readiness to transition, and a staged text diet that blends decodables with rich literature. • reframing the debate around suitability, not good or bad • defining novice readers by code knowledge, not age • risks of mixing leveled and decodable texts too early • signs students are ready to shift text types • pl...

People in this episode

Host: Jocelyn Seamer

Topics covered

  • decodable texts
  • beginner readers
  • reading strategies
  • literature integration
  • reading readiness

Keywords

  • decodable texts
  • reading instruction
  • novice readers
  • text types
  • literature

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