Shares some lesser known generalities and historical influences that have influenced the English spelling system. Argues that teachers can help students discover some of the patterns and complexities of English spelling and together explore the rich and fascinating story of how this printed language has developed and changed over time, thus…

Argues that teachers cannot teach empathy, generosity, and kindness in the same way they teach solving a math problem, but that teachers can help raise awareness of these values and affirm them whenever possible. Describes five picture books that examine the importance of reaching out to others, and that may help move students from intellectual…

Describes how the three paradigms of assessment (assessment as measurement, as procedure, or as inquiry) are similar and how they are different, using writing portfolios to help distinguish between them. Presents several factors that support teachers making a "paradigm shift" from assessment as measurement to assessment as inquiry. Explains…

Discusses six books that give a range of perspectives on the issues of assessment and accountability, from the use of standardized reading tests to creating student and professional portfolios. States that these books will provide teachers with the knowledge to make sound assessment decisions and with practical suggestions to document student and…

Revisits the literacy development of two at-risk first graders who participated in Reading Recovery for one semester, but who responded to the instruction in very different ways. Rethinks beliefs about effective instruction concerning four instructional issues: phonics and phonemic awareness, text selection, the use of context clues, and the issue…

Illustrates how a group of teachers went about addressing the issue of turning theory into classroom practice, to illuminate the nature of the issues to be addressed when teachers seek to engage in the theory-into-practice process. Presents a table (created by this group) which is a framework for turning a theory of learning into classroom reading…

Presents an interview with Simms Taback, winner of the 2000 Caldecott Award for his children's book illustrations. Discusses Taback's career as a graphic artist and children's book illustrator. Discusses intricate details and clever nuances in "Joseph Had a Little Overcoat," a warm and humorous tale proving that you can always make something, even…

Presents an interview with 2000 Newbery Medal winner Christopher Paul Curtis. Reveals the author's journey as a reader and a writer, offers glimpses into the humor and upbeat attitude of Bud (the main character in Curtis' s award-winning book "Bud, Not Buddy"), and gives a peek into what readers can expect next from this award-winning author. (SR)

Offers brief descriptions of 36 children's books. Discusses the books in the following groups: journeys together; unexpected journeys; journeys to the past; journeys of the heart; physical journeys; and journeys that revisit. Notes more books for promoting discussion and outlines a literature strategy. (SR)

Illustrates how in one particular second-grade classroom students had opportunities for learning the academic and social content of literature while simultaneously engaging in the processes and practices of reading. Focuses on the kinds of opportunities offered to students in their involvement in Book Clubs and how those opportunities occur when…

Presents a 25-item annotated bibliography of books for ages K-12 published in 1999. Notes that these selections are from culturally authentic "quality" literature that is rich in detail and celebrates both diversity and the common bonds of humanity. Includes books regarding cultural and personal heritage, celebrating people and places, and moral…

Describes the "Let's Read Together" program designed as a four-week summer reading camp. Concludes that this program, while supplying the children with direct reading instruction, also empowered parents to become more involved and to feel more confident in assisting their children academically. (SC)

Describes a way to involve mixed-level, third-grade readers more effectively in literature or author studies without limiting their choice of texts. Offers several book options that met literature teaching goals. Describes how the "Tag Reading" techniques work and recommends Tag Reading as an ideal technique for stress-free reading from Grade 3 on…

Considers positive reasons for using drama in a classroom as part of reading instruction. Discusses the benefits and encounters with using drama in the classroom. Describes how to incorporate drama into reading instruction. (SC)

Considers how in these times of increased focus on standards and accountability, it is important to understand the views of the various participants. Begins with a brief history of the testing movement in Texas. Reports findings from a study on the negative effects of high stakes testing. Concludes with suggestions to minimize these effects on…