Introduction
We all know it: kids love games, and learning to read takes explicit practice and repetition. What if you could combine both—structured phonics instruction and joyful, game-based learning? That’s exactly what Teach Your Monster to Read delivers. This free app turns phonics into play while staying rooted in the Science of Reading, giving students the systematic practice they need in a format they actually want.
In 2024 alone, more than 3 million new students joined the game, logging 35 million plays and reading over 30 million books inside the platform. Teachers across the U.S. call it a “game-changer” for reluctant readers, English Language Learners (ELLs), and young students who need extra phonics support. And now, thanks to a one-hour Coursera Guided Project, you can quickly learn how to use this tool with confidence—and even tap into classroom data to refine your teaching.
Why This Course Matters
As teachers, we’re constantly on the lookout for resources that are:
- Engaging for students
- Backed by research
- Easy to implement
- Affordable (or free!)
This guided project checks all those boxes. In just an hour, you’ll see how to set up your class, organize student groups, connect parents, and monitor progress. Best of all, you’ll discover how to turn student data from the game into insights that strengthen your literacy instruction.
No need to block out a PD day or juggle sub coverage—this is self-paced, practical, and designed for real classrooms.
What You’ll Learn in the Guided Project
By enrolling, you’ll get a split-screen walkthrough from instructor Rachel Lindsay showing exactly how to:
- Create your free Teach Your Monster teacher account
- Set up your classroom and manage student groups
- Customize student settings to match learning needs
- Connect parents to student accounts to celebrate progress at home
- Track reading progress with in-game data and reward achievements
All in about one hour—with a shareable Coursera certificate to show off your new skill.
Real-World Impact
Teachers who already use Teach Your Monster to Read highlight its power:
“Students take ownership of their monsters and stay motivated to practice sounds and words they used to resist.” – Kindergarten Teacher, U.S.
“It works beautifully with my ELL learners—they finally engage with phonics!” – Elementary Teacher, U.S.
“It supports all learning styles and helps me differentiate without extra prep.” – Computer Teacher, TX
With millions of books read in-game each year, the app is proving that literacy practice doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
Why SDA Recommends This Course
At SchoolDay Academy, we know teachers need PD that respects your time and budget. That’s why we recommend this Coursera Guided Project: it’s short, classroom-ready, and helps you integrate a proven, research-backed tool without guesswork. You’ll leave with both the “how” (tech setup, data tracking) and the “why” (student engagement, Science of Reading alignment).
But here’s where the real value shines:
For just $149 per year, teachers get unlimited access to this course and thousands more. That means after finishing this guided project, you can explore other high-impact professional learning topics like:
- AI in the Classroom – demystify AI tools and policies while keeping students safe
- Strategies for Differentiated Instruction – practical ways to meet diverse learning needs
- Improving Reading Fluency – evidence-based strategies for helping students read with confidence
- Digital Tools for Classroom Management – streamline routines and maximize learning time
- Math Teaching Practices That Work – strengthen number sense and problem-solving in early grades
With SDA, you’re not just signing up for a single course—you’re opening the door to a full year of professional growth on the topics that matter most in your classroom.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Early literacy is too important to leave to chance. With Teach Your Monster to Read, you can give students a fun, motivating way to build foundational skills—and with this guided project, you can master the tool in just an hour. Even better, your SDA subscription gives you access to a library of 9,000+ courses that help you stay ahead in literacy, math, classroom tech, and beyond.
Start learning Encouraging Student Growth with Teach Your Monster to Read today on Coursera. One hour, endless classroom impact—all included in your SDA membership.