34. Orthographic Mapping, Sight Words & High-Frequency Words: What Every Teacher Should Know

In this solo episode of Literacy in Color, we’re cutting through the confusion around sight words, high-frequency words, and orthographic mapping. You’ll get a clear, research-backed understanding of how the brain actually learns words — and why traditional memorization strategies just don’t cut it.

Michelle breaks down why every word "wants to grow up and become a sight word" and shares how teachers can make smart instructional moves that build strong, fluent readers by honoring what we know from the Science of Reading.

If you’ve ever wondered:

• Should I still send home sight word flashcards?
• What’s orthographic mapping actually mean?
• How can I organize my high-frequency instruction around phonics skills?

...this episode will answer ALL of that (and more!) in a practical, empowering way.

Key Takeaways:

• The difference between sight words and high-frequency words (hint: they're not the same)
• What orthographic mapping is—and why it’s not an activity
• How words become mapped for instant recognition
• Why explicit instruction—not memorization—is key to building fluent readers
• How to group high-frequency words by phonics features for better transfer and mastery

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: Making Words Stick: A Four-Step Instructional Routine to Power Up Orthographic Mapping (The Science of Reading in Practice) by Dr. Katie Pace Miles & Dr. Molly Ness

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Other Helpful Resources:

• High Frequency Words Sorted Phonics by Skill, Mapped in Sound Boxes
• Seasonal Word Mapping Boards
• Blog Post: Why Orthographic Mapping is Important when Teaching High Frequency Words
• FREE Guide: Phonics & Morphology Terms Every Teacher Needs to Know

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Interested in Learning More about Morphology?

• Take our Course: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every Educator