Contexts for reading and writing
Teachers will learn how to create a literacy-rich K–5 classroom where the entire class remains engaged in meaningful reading, writing, and word study, even when the teacher is providing small-group instruction. (K-5) 224 pp.
The book is divided into two distinct parts. The first section gives the research background and rationale for using literacy centers. It provides the tools for thoughtful design and use of centers along with helpful hints on how best to motivate students. The second section provides activities for modeling literature to interest children in reading in social collaborative settings. These activities are designed to foster the development of comprehension skills and strategies through the use of children's literature. The book gives equal time to the development of word study skills, such as phonemic awareness and phonics, with manipulative materials to ensure fluent reading.
Included are:
- smart suggestions for introducing centers;
- management ideas;
- black-line masters;
- ways to foster student collaboration and cooperation;
- ways to assess students' center work and suggestions for promoting student accountability;
- a completely new section on word study, phonics and phonemic awareness;
- practical and effective suggestions for family involvement.
The Literacy Center can help you develop your students' enthusiasm for reading and writing. It is perfect for introducing pre-service teachers to classrooms that are literacy-rich and purposeful, as well as for continuing staff development for classroom teachers who are seeking better ways to engage students in reading and writing.
