Sign in

Tennessee Reading Research

@tnreadresearch.bsky.social
34 followers 15 following 39 posts

To help all participate in society through effective literacy instruction and assessment. 🌐 trrc.utk.edu 📧 trrcinfo@utk.edu 📞 (865) 974-0782

PostsRepliesMedia
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
October is #LearningDisabilitiesAwareness Month. Students, children, or adults with learning disabilities potentially can face added challenges with academic tasks. Learn more about the characteristics of learning disabilities: www.readingrockets.org/topics/learn...
A student writing with the text "Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Tennessee Reading Research Center."
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
#ReadingComprehension is essential for students because it supports their understanding of words and texts and their ability to think critically about what they read. Access the 𝘛𝘰𝘰𝘭𝘬𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘒–3 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 to help young learners' reading comprehension. ies.ed.gov/ncee/rel/rea...
ies.ed.gov
REL Resource | Toolkit for Teaching K-3 Reading Comprehension
Toolkit for Teaching K-3 Reading Comprehension
001
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Do you have a library card? Libraries are a great way to get involved with community efforts that promote literacy. They offer access to a variety of books, resources, and opportunities to participate in local events. Find a library near you: linktr.ee/tnreadresearch
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
TRRC Director Dr. Deborah K. Reed will be presenting at the #MemphisLiteracyConference this weekend (Sept. 18–19) with her session for secondary educators, 'Background Knowledge + Inferencing Ability = Brains More Accurate than AI." Learn more: www.memphisliteracy.org
The TRRC is presenting at Memphis Literacy Conference 2026
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
Proficient #handwriting is important for adolescents and can impact students' literacy. The TRRC Handwriting Analysis Guide is a free resource that middle and high school teachers can use to collect and score writing samples. Download the guide: trrc.utk.edu/resources/ha...
Handwriting Analysis Guide for middle and high school students
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
In a recent article by Philip Dison for ABC 33/40, TRRC Director Dr. Deborah Reed speaks on the importance of providing support to middle- and high-school students who are struggling to read. Access the full article: abc3340.com/news/local/a...
abc3340.com
Alabama literacy leaders push for more help for struggling readers after third grade
Alabama literacy leaders are pressing for sustained help for middle and high school students who still struggle to read after third grade.
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
About 28% of U.S.-born adults have severely limited literacy skills. #AdultEducation programs can help strengthen reading and writing skills and support pathways to further education and employment opportunities. Learn more about programs in your area: nld.org/learners
"Raising literacy skills of individuals has the real potential to transform entire communities by creating a sustainable workforce pipeline, ending generational poverty, closing health disparities, and increasing community involvement." Dr. Ryan Hall TRRC Adult Literacy Lead
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
𝘓𝘦𝘰𝘯: 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 is a graphic novel about a “superhero” who may be causing more harm than good. This book can be used to teach Grades 3–7 how pairing illustrations and panel layouts with words can convey the meaning, tone, and mood of the story. #LiteracyEducation #MiddleGradeBooks
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
What can four years of Tennessee’s #EarlyReadingTraining (ERT) tell us about literacy outcomes? The TRRC’s newest report examines third graders’ Spring 2025 TCAP ELA performance, highlighting significant benefits students experienced across 2021–2025. Learn more: trrc.utk.edu/resources/im...
From Kindergarten Through Grade 3: Four Years of Evidence on the Impact of Early Reading Training
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
It’s National Literacy Month! As a leader in literacy and reading research, we continually work to reaffirm our commitment to making our resources accessible to all. Explore our free literacy resources: trrc.utk.edu/resource-lib... #NationalLiteracyMonth #TNReads
A student reading a book with the text "National Literacy Month"
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Parents and caregivers can help their teens develop reading skills to support learning in all subject areas. This infographic from the IES gives parents 3 strategies to support teenagers’ reading skills so that they can succeed in school. Help your teen succeed: ies.ed.gov/sites/defaul...
ies.ed.gov
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
Preschool teachers play a vital role in building early literacy foundations. The IES' 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺: 𝘌𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘺 offers four modules focused on key areas of early literacy development. Access the materials: ies.ed.gov/use-work/res...
"Professional Learning Community: Emergent Literacy. A resource for preschool educators by the Institute of Education Sciences" with a student pointing to letters
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
Frankie was a normal goldfish until Mark became an evil scientist and turned Frankie into a zombie! Pair 𝘔𝘺 𝘉𝘪𝘨 𝘍𝘢𝘵 𝘡𝘰𝘮𝘣𝘪𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘧𝘪𝘴𝘩 by Mo O’Hara with this video to teach students in Grades 2–5 about foreshadowing and the clues the author provides throughout the story about how it will end. #Literacy
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
Looking for a writing resource for Grades 6-8? The Secondary Writing Toolkit through the Institute of Education Services helps educators teach writing that aligns with standards through relatable, real-world topics. Access the toolkit: ies.ed.gov/ncee/rel/wri...
ies.ed.gov
REL Resource | Secondary Writing Toolkit
Secondary Writing Toolkit
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
It is never too early to start reading with your child. 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦 is a free resource that offers simple, practical ways to build early literacy through shared reading—available as a booklet and as a guide. Start sharing stories: literacytrust.org.uk/resources/sh...
literacytrust.org.uk
Share stories with me | National Literacy Trust
A booklet designed to support families to look at books and read stories with their 0-5 year olds.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Choosing the right read-aloud book for preK–2 can be difficult, but the TRRC can help! Our newest resource provides teachers with a structured rubric for evaluating the quality of picture books. Access the rubric: trrc.utk.edu/resources/re...
"Read-Aloud Book Review Guide: Protocol for Reviewing Picture Books for Meaning-Focused Literacy Instruction" with a stoplight illustration.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
Multilingual learners in middle and high school may need extra support as they build reading skills. Teachers can use this resource to learn instructional tips for supporting students’ reading success this school year and beyond. Help your multilingual learners: www.adlit.org/topics/engli...
adlit.org
Tips for Teaching Middle and High School ELLs
Learn how middle and high school teachers can target their instruction to support ELL success with these tips from a veteran high school ELL teacher.
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
Whether you’re at a large public or small private school, the TRRC can provide what you need to support your students’ academic success. Start this academic year prepared with free research-based materials: trrc.utk.edu/resource-library
"At times, the busyness of the school year can be overwhelming. Having research on code-focused instruction allows me to look at how we teach literacy with fresh eyes and renewed determination in this critical area of a child's academic journey." quote by Angie McNichols, Lower School Dean of Christ Classical Academy, Dyersburg, TN.
000
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
Looking for children’s books related to certain times of the year or themes? Check out Reach Out & Read. Their booklists feature recommendations based on seasons, cultural holidays, and a variety of topics for children 6 months to 5 years old. Explore the booklists: reachoutandread.org/booklists/
reachoutandread.org
Booklists - Reach Out and Read
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 28/07/2026
Is your family R.E.A.D.Y. for reading success? Explore this downloadable resource using the R.E.A.D.Y. acronym designed to help families create lasting literacy habits at home. Get R.E.A.D.Y. today: trrc.utk.edu/resources/pr...
A family with the text "Is your family R.E.A.D.Y. for reading success? Download the free resource for ways to build literacy habits in your home."
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
Could you survive in the wilderness with no promise of rescue? Use the award-winning novel 𝘏𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘵 and this video to teach compare and contrast by examining Brian’s life before and after a plane crash in the Canadian Wilderness. #Hatchet #ReadingEducation
020
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Help your child or early teen through age 14 find a book they want to read! Explore the Albuquerque Public Library’s Find a Good One list of award-winning books, organized by a variety of interests and themes. Check out the list: abqlibrary.org/newbery/Find...
abqlibrary.org
LibGuides: Newbery Award Books: Find a Good One
Recent and past Newbery Award winners. The Newbery Medal is awarded to the author of the most distinguished American children's book of the previous year.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 14/07/2026
A new vocabulary lesson for Grades K-2 tutors and interventionists is now available! This resource uses the book 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘚𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘵 by Gail Gibbons to teach key vocabulary from informational texts. Download the resource and use it with your students this school year: trrc.utk.edu/resources/co...
illustrations of plants, a bee, and a butterfly with the text "Content Area Vocabulary Lesson: "From Seed to Plant" by Gail Gibbons"
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Reading is a skill that takes instruction and time to achieve proficiency. Swipe through to learn why strong literacy skills are important for children and find resources that support literacy practices. Explore our resource library: trrc.utk.edu/resource-lib...
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 07/07/2026
How strong is your vocabulary? Find out with this Merriam-Webster vocabulary game quiz. This is a great way for students to practice their word knowledge as they prepare for SAT and ACT tests, or for you to test your knowledge! Test your vocabulary: www.merriam-webster.com/games/vocabu...
merriam-webster.com
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary? - Word Game | Merriam-Webster
Take our 10-question quiz to find out — and maybe learn some new words along the way.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
Principals play a vital role in reading success. This resource from Reading Rockets gives 7 key points for school principals and administrators to implement in their schools to encourage good reading habits. Help your school succeed: www.readingrockets.org/topics/schoo...
readingrockets.org
What Principals Can Do to Help Students Become Good Readers
School administrators have a critical leadership role to play in helping students become good readers. This article suggests seven key action steps on how principals and other administrators can creat...
020
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Motivating a middle or high schooler to read for pleasure can sometimes be challenging, but it is possible with the right support. Parent University offers tips tailored to adolescent learners. Explore 9 ways to get teens reading: parents.grps.org/article/lite...
A student reading with the text "Motivate teens to read"
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
Creativity plays can make early learning both interactive and meaningful. This summer, explore the Day By Day TN Family Literacy Calendar for songs, activities, and crafts designed to support young children’s literacy development: daybydaytn.com
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
Reading with your child can create lasting reading habits. It also builds important language and comprehension skills. Download our free bookmark for tips on reading with your child, and watch the accompanying video to learn how to ask your child questions about a book: trrc.utk.edu/resources/pr...
text "Tips for reading with your child. Download the printable bookmark available in 12 languages."
020
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 12/06/2026
In a new article in 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘸 𝘠𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳, TRRC director Deborah Reed contributes to writer Jessica Winter’s article about the importance of encouraging good, lasting reading habits instead of “book-shaming” in children’s literature. Access the article: www.newyorker.com/culture/prog...
newyorker.com
Why “Book-Shaming” Won’t Solve the Children’s Literacy Crisis
The nation’s official advocate for children’s books says most of them are “crud.” But matters of literary quality don’t explain why kids aren’t reading.
041
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 11/06/2026
𝘎𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵, the award-winning novel by Jason Reynolds, follows track athlete Castle “Ghost” Cranshaw as he discovers who he wants to become. Pair 𝘎𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵 with our new TRRC Reader to teach students in Grades 4-9 about symbolism. #TRRCReader #LiteracyEducation
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
Are you interested in accessing free digital books? The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy partnered with Worldreader to create a digital library offering books for children, adults, and educators. Access the online library: www.barbarabush.org/readlife-boo...
barbarabush.org
ReadLife Bookshelf - Parent - Barbara Bush Foundation
Over the past 30 years, the Foundation has raised and provided more than $110 million in support to create or expand family and adult literacy programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
Mealtime can be a meaningful opportunity to support children’s early literacy development and strengthen vocabulary skills. Access the 𝘔𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘛𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 tip sheet to learn how to engage babies in conversation during meals: talkingisteaching.org/parent-resou...
a parent feeding a child with the text "make meals conversational"
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
Bring the volunteer spirit to literacy. Reading Partners trains volunteers to deliver individualized reading tutoring to elementary students through in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities. Learn how you can help children improve their reading skills: readingpartners.org/get-involved...
readingpartners.org
Volunteer with Reading Partners
Our volunteer literacy tutors spend a little over an hour a week making a huge difference in the lives of their students.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 19/05/2026
An important building block to reading and spelling is phonological awareness. In this new resource, TRRC collaborator Dr. Christina Novelli explains what phonological awareness is and three easy activities that families can do with their child. trrc.utk.edu/resources/so...
a child playing with blocks with the text "3 games you can use at home to build early reading skills"
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 12/05/2026
We are pleased to announce Mr. Harry Fields, III, as the recipient of the 2026 TRRC Friend of Literacy Award! This award honors individuals who have advanced literacy or made a significant contribution to literacy in Tennessee. Learn more: trrc.utk.edu/2026-friend-...
Mr. Harry Fields is holding up an award next to Dr. Deborah Reed.
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
The TRRC & UTK literacy faculty support the growing research on identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. The International Dyslexia Association released a new definition this fall. Our partners at MTSU and TDOE are helping bring this updated understanding into practice. Proud to be part.
dyslexiaida.org
2025 Dyslexia Definition Project - International Dyslexia Association
"Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary
021
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 19/02/2025
Introducing our Theory of Mind infographic to pair with the informational paper released earlier this month. Help students understand how others think & feel through storybooks. Created by UTK faculty, Kristen Secora, Ph.D. Perfect for teachers & other instructors: tiny.utk.edu/NeuroStorybo...
010
Tennessee Reading Research @tnreadresearch.bsky.social · 14/01/2025
Since 2022, the TRRC has existed to become a leading producer of respected literacy research and a trusted source of effective literacy practices. Take a look at what we've accomplished in the last two years in our first annual report: tiny.utk.edu/TRRCAnnualReport
tiny.utk.edu
Annual Report - Tennessee Reading Research Center
Since its inception in 2022, the TRRC has made strides in collaborating with community organizations, schools, and the state to better understand and improve literacy outcomes for all of Tennessee’s s...
020