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Using Language Materials with Purpose

Dr. Susan Zoll

Description

Join Dr. Susan Zoll, literacy expert and Montessori educator, as she shares strategies for assessing and supporting children’s literacy development within both Montessori and traditional education settings. With years of experience as a literacy coach, teacher trainer, and author, Susan offers practical tools to help you understand how to track progress and ensure children are moving forward in their learning.

In this session, you’ll discover:

  • How to use observations and record-keeping to assess literacy development

  • The importance of vocabulary and language comprehension, alongside decoding skills

  • Practical tools like personalized literacy plans, checklists, and learning environments to support language growth

Susan also emphasizes the value of building reading and vocabulary skills from an early age, using Montessori materials and methods to support children’s natural development.

Featuring

Dr. Susan Zoll

Dr. Susan Zoll is a Montessorian who has served as tenured professor and led several literacy projects funded by the U.S. Department of Education. She has co-chaired the American Montessori Society’s (AMS) Research Committee and received the AMS 2025 Impact Award. She is the co-author of three books: Implementing the Montessori Method: Learner-Centered Education from Birth through Adolescence (2026), Effective Literacy Assessment in the Montessori Classroom: Using Data to Inform Instruction (2025), and Powerful Literacy in the Montessori Classroom: Aligning Reading Research and Practice (2023).

Lucie-Tamasova-SQ2-461x461

Lucie Brixí Tamášová is first of all a mother of three (+two) children. She has made a significant impact through her NGO, Centrum Dialog, which provides education to underprivileged children in Kenya and Guinea. She is also the owner of Montessorihracky.cz, a shop specializing in Montessori materials and didactical toys. Lucie’s passion for empowering children extends beyond her NGO work; she is the founder of the Childhood Potential Conference and Montessori Parenting courses. As a fervent Montessori enthusiast, Lucie is committed to connecting people and ensuring the Montessori message reaches a global audience by bringing the best speakers to her events. Her work reflects a profound dedication to creating a brighter future for children across the globe.

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