Before having this exploration assignment, I never imagined using podcasts with students. I enjoy podcasts often on my rides to and from work, especially self-help podcasts that encourage me to live better and be a better person. My favorite podcaster is The Angry Therapist. I am now very excited about using podcasts in my library and introducing the use of podcasts to my teachers for use in the classroom. As a former reading teacher, I enjoyed reading the article about podcasts improving reading skills. The article mentioned listening to podcasts to help with decoding as well as listening while reading, reading more accurately and for enjoyment. I now see how a podcast could convert reluctant readers into literate listeners at all levels K-12.
I easily got lost in exploring all the podcasts and following suggested podcasts for further exploration. There are SO many podcasts out there for students and teachers to use at all grade levels and learning levels. My favorite podcast, after exploring many, was Buttons and Figs created by Pamela Rogers. This podcast was a very engaging and educational way to look at literature and especially wordplay. As a classroom reading teacher, wordplay was one of my favorites to teach. I was immediately intrigued by this podcast. This podcast seemed unique to me because of the mix of songs and kid to host input. The host has excellent voice inflection that sets the tone and creates energy in the podcast. Many of the podcast would be good to use whole group, individually, or even as a center rotation. Topics covered were immense. Some topics included were parts of speech, poetry, and types of figurative language. I specifically enjoyed the podcast entitled Idiom Play where the host invited a class of 3rd graders to co-host with her. It was extremely engaging, fun, and educational. I continued exploring and found the website https://buttonsandfigs.com/ to be a useful supplement to the podcast.
I will definitely be using podcasts more in my media center and sharing this teaching tool with my teachers and staff for the upcoming school year. Such fun!
Rogers, Pamela(Host). (5 March 2020). #47 Idiom Play. Buttons and Figs. Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/buttons-figs/id1150715877?mt=2
It is certainly easy to get lost in all the podcast possibilities. I had never thought of using them in my classroom, either. After listening to a variety of them, it is something I will definitely explore in the future. I may have to go check out The Angry Therapist. It sounds very intriguing! My best friend was an elementary reading teacher and is now a librarian in an elementary school. It sounds like the two of you have a lot in common. I will have to share Buttons and Flags with her.
I love the image and quote on your home page. I too had only thought about using podcast for personal use. Thank you for sharing the podcast recommendation. I’m also a reading teacher and so I look forward to checking out the podcast recommendation.
Thanks for the compliment. The photo on my home page belongs to a very special friend of mine. He captured it on a hike.
I think you will really like the Buttons and Figs podcast. Best Wishes…
Hi Amy, I love podcasts too and think they could be fun and educational in the classroom/library. Thanks for introducing me to Buttons and Figs. I am going to check it out.
You’re Welcome. Best Wishes
I enjoyed your post about decoding in reading for students. A podcast is an excellent way for students to learn reading skills or to explain a lesson.
Thanks so much!