Minding the Gap

The High School Graduates Are Not All Right

It's not just college kids who are suffering from inadequate K-12 schooling.

Sep 27 • 

Natalie Wexler

43

11

Testing, Testing

What's behind historically low reading and math scores for 12th graders?

Sep 20 • 

Natalie Wexler

38

19

Debunking the Leveled Reading Myth

A new book details the lack of evidence for limiting students to books they can read easily.

Sep 12 • 

Natalie Wexler

40

29

August 2025

What New Zealand Can Teach Us About Education

Like many states in the US, New Zealand’s government has embraced the “science of reading.” But it hasn’t stopped there.

Aug 31 • 

Natalie Wexler

45

26

Cash for Poor Families Isn't Enough to Boost Academic Outcomes

Reducing child poverty is a worthy goal, but we also need to change schools so they work for all students.

Aug 14 • 

Natalie Wexler

52

12

Why Do Some People Say There's No Reading Crisis?

It may have something to do with opposing systematic phonics instruction.

Aug 11 • 

Natalie Wexler

50

26

Scientific Findings and Classroom Practice

How much difference will it make if federal support for education research disappears?

Aug 3 • 

Natalie Wexler

47

18

July 2025

A New Podcast Explores Literacy and the Science of Learning

I'm a co-host, along with Dylan Wiliam and Doug Lemov, of Season 3 of the Knowledge Matters Podcast.

Jul 22 • 

Natalie Wexler

40

4

What Happens When Students Get Feedback on Their Writing?

Often, nothing much.

Jul 8 • 

Natalie Wexler

52

13

June 2025

How Generative AI Can Rot Your Brain

Over-reliance on tools like ChatGPT prevents learning and critical thinking.

Jun 17 • 

Natalie Wexler

64

15

Struggles with 'Bleak House'

Should college students be expected to read and understand nineteenth-century novels?

Jun 7 • 

Natalie Wexler

82

34

May 2025

Knowledge-Building in the News

The mainstream media is beginning to take note of the trend towards building knowledge in elementary school. Let’s hope that leads to deeper coverage.

May 27 • 

Natalie Wexler

41

11