What first inspired your focus on improving reading comprehension?
I’ve always been fascinated by students who decode beautifully but still struggle to make meaning. The gap between reading the words and truly understanding them led me to explore the language foundations of reading, particularly vocabulary and morphology. I wanted to give teachers practical tools that make comprehension visible and teachable.
Why is morphology such a powerful tool for literacy development?
Morphology provides learners with a system for understanding how words work. When students grasp word structure, they approach unfamiliar vocabulary with confidence rather than anxiety. Phonics unlocks the sound system; morphology unlocks the meaning system. Together, they build a deep understanding of words and help students navigate complex texts.
Which student activity from Morphology Basics do teachers tell you they use most?
The morphology matrices and word-building activities are clear favourites. Making the invisible visible matters – when students can manipulate word parts and watch words grow and connect, their relationship with language changes. They shift from confusion to curiosity.
If teachers take away one key idea from your book, what would it be?
That morphology isn’t supplementary – it’s foundational. Teaching how words are built isn’t an add-on. It’s core instruction that creates stronger, more confident readers, writers and thinkers.
What helps you stay inspired when working with teachers and students?
With teachers, it’s when they realise they are the true resource – their knowledge and voice make the most significant difference.
For students, it’s having the tools and instructional routines that help them work out unfamiliar words and build confidence in their own ability.
About Claire Knight
Claire Knight is a literacy facilitator for Massey Literacy under Tätai Angitu, providing high-quality professional development to schools in Auckland and the Waikato region. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she has served as a Deputy Principal and Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB). Claire is currently pursuing her PhD at Massey University, focusing on improving reading comprehension for students in Years 4-8. She is passionate about seeing all students succeed and empowering teachers to be powerful resources for their classrooms, schools, and communities. Her extensive experience and dedication make her a key contributor to enhancing literacy practices in education.
