This article reports findings from an email survey of 748 U.S. PreK-8 teachers. The survey invited teachers' reflections on their autonomy in selecting children's literature for classroom instruction and classroom libraries. In this descriptive study, researchers used frequency counts, cross-tabulations, and examination of text-based responses.…

Relatively little is known about preschool teachers' read-aloud techniques with informational picture books. The purpose of this investigation was to identify similarities and differences between preschool teachers' read-aloud techniques with fictional stories, which are commonly read in preschool, and informational texts. Instrumental case study…

This article describes our collaborative inquiry, three teacher educators/researchers of literacy from different institutions who shared a concern about how few teacher candidates in our programs neither viewed themselves as readers nor possessed a love of reading, qualities we view as key to supporting all children as lifelong readers, writers,…

In order for students to learn how to construct meaning from text, teachers must apply instructional strategies that will help readers transition from simple decoding of words to fluent word identification. This article will provide an overview of the literature related to the role of fluency in reading; explain research-based recommendations for…

Third in a series of four articles devoted to parents and reading. Focuses upon parental involvement in reading and examines research and activities that can be beneficial at home and at school. (HTH)

Reviews research and anecdotal accounts which present instructional techniques and which suggest that the quality of instruction, quality of time, and quality of books are significant factors in ensuring that story reading is a true literacy event. Argues that consistent story readings facilitate the acquisition of the reading process. (RS)

Provides guidelines for using action (pop-up) books of rhymes and tales to help children develop prereading skills and a sense of story structure. (AEW)

Discusses how teachers can begin to create contexts in which reading excites children and links them effectively with books in a variety of genres. Argues that literature is a vehicle for creating contexts to facilitate intellectual growth and critical thinking. (RS)