Research has indicated that adding mind-set and self-regulation strategy instruction to the writers' workshop framework may improve motivation, independence, and academic success in young writers. Invented spelling can strengthen the relation between phonological and orthographic representations. The authors examined the impact of growth mind-set…

The teaching approach described in this article was originally designed for kindergarten students who are at risk for reading disorders. In a 30-minute session, students practiced attending to and identifying the spelling patterns, pronunciations, and meanings of common morphological suffixes through listening activities, interactive book reading,…

In this article, a reading specialist tells her own story of making parental involvement work with kindergarten children in her school. Using a research-based instructional routine that involves parents and children in repeatedly reading a rhythmical text followed by a brief activity involving letter learning, phonemic awareness, and phonics, this…

Discusses the concept of "emergent literacy," contrasting this term with the concept of reading readiness. Proposes that a program of kindergarten instruction related to literacy should provide opportunities for children to interact successfully with print. (MM)

Seeks answers to two questions using an informal Functions of Print Test: (1) are kindergartners aware of the functions of print, and (2) what do kindergartners view as the reasons for reading in our society? Finds, in general, children are aware of the functions of print and recognize the purpose for reading. (NH)

Reveals that traits associated with early readers from low socioeconomic backgrounds are similar to traits associated with early readers from higher socioeconomic levels. (FL)

Describes how the author and her kindergarten students created a cooking center and restaurant in which they participate in regular cooking projects to provide opportunities to apply newly acquired skills in reading, writing, and math. (MG)

Reports research results showing that kindergarten children continue to progress in their knowledge about reading over summer vacations--without formal instruction. Contains a copy of the Letter and Word Reading Test, which was used in the study. (FL)