Literacy in the Intermediate Grades: Best Practices for a Comprehensive Program

This book reflects the same balanced and comprehensive approach as Striking a Balance and applies it to teaching literacy in the intermediate grades. It shows readers how to integrate direct instruction in word study, vocabulary, comprehension strategies, and writing skills with rich and varied reading and writing experiences. It addresses such issues as teaching to standards, differentiating instruction for readers at all levels, using assessment to inform instruction, working with English language learners, and connecting with parents. It also presents topics of particular interest to teachers in the intermediate grades including content area literacy, developing motivated life-long readers and writers, listening to learn, formal and informal speaking instruction, planning and implementing a differentiated lesson, and developing authentic learning experiences.