Explicit instruction on the skill of creating mental imagery from text supports reading comprehension and recall. This article shares a strategy for teaching students how to process what they read by comparing mental imagery to "brain movies." It emphasizes choosing appropriate fiction and nonfiction texts to encourage readers to build the skill…

Teachers often have no preparation for handling the questions and conversations that arise in the classroom when discussing literature having adoption or foster care themes. Instead of relying on personal experiences or stereotypes portrayed through the media, teachers are advised to understand the developmental tasks of children from families…

Vocabulary knowledge is a critical contributor to reading, especially reading comprehension. A word-rich classroom environment maximizes students' opportunities to learn new words. The teacher's use of language provides an important model for children's vocabulary development. By modeling the use of sophisticated words, teachers can promote…

The authors of this article state that, as literacy coaches negotiate complex tasks in their work with teachers, they assume dual roles. The authors review the evolution of International Reading Association (IRA) standards, paying particular attention to the roles of literacy coach and literacy coordinator. The authors then present data on the…

The current accountability movement has focused on academic achievement but has circumvented issues of motivation and authentic reading materials. Many educators have challenged this direction of the reading curriculum, particularly criticizing the narrowing of the curriculum, the continued focus of teaching to the tests, the overemphasis on…

Describes an inservice technique that models for teachers how they can use the Directed Reading Thinking Activity to develop students' predictive strategies. (FL)

Argues that concepts of literacy develop gradually and that in a natural language environment, saturated with good stories, meaningful conversation, and abundant writing materials, the process can begin even before a child goes to school. (FL)

Reviews the importance of reading and several aspects of the present situation in reading instruction. Emphasizes the role of the individual and the need for leadership as the field of reading moves into the future. (MB)

Shares the author's experiences of how she changed as a teacher throughout her teaching career. Discusses the importance of teachers becoming learners along with their students who question and wonder with inquisitive minds. (MG)

Notes that good oral reading can strengthen the relationship between the spoken and printed word and improve comprehension. Offers suggestions to develop students' ability to read aloud. (FL)

Notes that classroom assessment of literacy is dominated by methods more appropriate to external mandates. Suggests an alternative method grounded in the teacher's professional judgment and in the relations between curriculum, instruction, and assessment. (FL)

Suggests that the lack of coherence between remedial programs and regular classrooms impedes the progress of students with reading difficulties. Provides an outline for an instructional program in which classroom and specialist teachers collaborate to provide the learner with coherent and balanced instruction. (ARH)

Reports on an educational project that focused on the nature of the support one teacher gave to the children in her kindergarten class while engaging with them in literacy play. Contends that the project revealed that young children have their own assumptions about and knowledge of the written language, which they actively use in their play. (PM)

Presents a position statement of the International Reading Association arguing that all schools (elementary, middle, and high schools) should include a qualified reading specialist as a core member of the educational team. Discusses why reading specialists are needed; what they do; their roles in instruction, assessment, and leadership; and the…