Introduction to Structured Word Inquiry: To Support Reading and Spelling Development in the Classroom
Date: Saturday, January 13, 2024
Time: 9:30-11:30 am
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: $40 per person
Join Laci Hitchcock for an informative and engaging workshop introducing K-5 teachers to Structured Word Inquiry (SWI). SWI is a scientific investigation of words: how word parts, structure, origin, and historical development come together to tell the story of what words mean, how words are connected, and how they are spelled. It is an approach to “literacy instruction that engages learners of all ages and abilities by making sense of our surprisingly logical spelling system. English spelling can only be understood through scientific investigation of the interrelationship of morphology (bases & affixes), etymology (historical influences) and phonology (grapheme-phoneme correspondences)” (Bowers & Kirby, 2010). SWI fosters an active and inquiry-based learning environment, encourages students to explore language in a hands-on manner, and promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In this short introductory workshop, participants will discover the core principles of SWI, its pivotal research contributors, and practical tools essential for implementation. We will briefly experience the power of SWI in enhancing vocabulary development and reading comprehension. We will discover strategies that promote critical thinking, linguistic exploration, and a deeper understanding of word patterns and connections. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped with practical insights and resources to integrate SWI into their daily teaching practices, fostering a more profound appreciation for language among their young learners.
About the Facilitator:
Laci Hitchcock is an Apple Learning Coach and National Board Certified Teacher. She is currently the Curriculum Director at Mary Star of the Sea School. She has been an educator for 11 years while teaching internationally for 5 years. She has experience as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, and curriculum director. Laci believes in fostering student curiosity through an inquiry, innovative and hands-on approach. In Laci’s free time, she loves to go to the beach with her family, run and swim. She also enjoys running half and full marathons and has completed two 70.3 Ironmans.