Speaker
Description
This keynote presentation explores the comprehensive Science of Reading (SoR) framework through a dual literacy lens, integrating both reading and writing instruction. While many educators recognize SoR's reading components, this session highlights the critical yet often overlooked writing dimension to create a cohesive literacy model. Presented by Learning A-Z's International Academic Manager, the session introduces the Literacy Rope model - an evidence-based approach combining five reading strands (phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension) with five writing strands (transcription, writing craft, syntax, text structure, critical thinking). Using practical classroom examples and actionable strategies, the presentation demonstrates how to implement this integrated framework effectively. Educators will gain specific tools to strengthen foundational skills, support struggling learners, and develop critical thinking through writing exercises. The session emphasizes progressive skill-building through research-backed methods like explicit phonics instruction combined with writing application. Key takeaways include practical techniques for simultaneous reading-writing instruction, differentiated support strategies, and measurable frameworks for literacy progression. By bridging the gap between reading and writing pedagogy, this approach offers educators a pathway to more equitable and sustainable literacy outcomes. The presentation concludes with immediately applicable classroom strategies that align reading and writing development while meeting diverse learner needs, ultimately creating more robust literacy instruction that addresses all components of effective communication. Participants will leave with concrete methods to implement this holistic approach in their teaching practice.
Biography
As a former classroom teacher and administrator
in the U.S. for 15 years, and a Chief Academic
Officer for over 120 schools internationally for a
decade, Jason brings passionate, wide-ranging
viewpoints toward providing practical and
effective educational solutions. He has worked
with academic leaders around the world.
Throughout, Jason has maintained a firm belief
that strong literacy skills significantly impact
academic success and life-long learning. Jason
hopes to empower educators at all levels with
critical resources and digital tools that will help
engage and support every student, at every
learning level.
Degrees:
MS in Educational Leadership
MA in Curriculum & Instruction
BA in Organizational Communication
BS in Education
Career Qualifications:
Classroom T eacher (awarded T eacher of the
Year in Olathe School District, USA)
School Administrator (Missouri & Kansas, USA)
Chief Academic Officer, Abu Dhabi Education
Council (for 120 international schools )