Mathematics teachers often resist generic literacy strategies because they do not seem relevant to math learning. Discipline-specific literacy practices that emerge directly from the math content and processes under study are more likely to be embraced by math teachers. Furthermore, national and state-level mathematics standards as well as Common…

Within the past few years literacy scholars have begun voicing serious doubts on theoretical and practical grounds about the efficacy of the longstanding notion that every teacher is a teacher of reading. In this commentary, we add our voices to the conversation around content area literacy as well as offer our perspectives on the recent calls for…

The most important element in the content literacy classroom is the teacher. Effective content literacy teachers engage their students through insistence, make connections across content areas, adapt instruction and are keenly aware of their students' out of class literacy interests. They are successful because they view themselves as learners too.

Is content literacy exclusively a U.S. phenomenon? In this installment we report on the state of content literacy from four international perspectives. Descriptions of content literacy from Ireland, Sweden, Germany, and Bulgaria offer insights into (a) the value policymakers may be placing on reading practices for content learning, and (b) the…

The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) is a global effort to assess reading literacy. The authors of this article focus on the variable of engagement--the student characteristic on PISA that had the largest correlation with achievement in reading. Next, salient findings related to engagement from three English-speaking PISA…

It is difficult to deny that many U.S. middle and high school students are in need of special literacy supports. Several indicators of declining literacy achievement have shifted national attention toward struggling and striving adolescent readers. More than ever, secondary schools are under enormous pressure to find ways of improving performance…

Evidence dating back to the 1930s and receiving increased attention today shows that boys tend to lag behind girls in reading achievement. The author asserts that we can help boys become thoughtful, accomplished readers, if we view their existing competencies, interests, and personal experiences as assets rather than as impediments to achievement.…

Presents an edited version of an academic discussion that took place between the authors entirely over e-mail about literacy and masculinities. Agrees that in order to dismantle forms of hegemony in society, citizens (both men and women) need to become critical readers and thinkers. (SG)

This article provides an overview of research about how teachers, parents, and others can help young people develop literacy practices for success in school and life beyond school. The authors, members of the International Reading Association's Commission on Adolescent Literacy, present the results of its review of the literature in the form of…

When it comes to reading, teen and preteen boys are the most difficult students. This book addresses the growing concern among middle and high school teachers about boys' lack of literacy growth and independent reading. The book makes the case that boys are in the greatest need of help with literacy instruction and stresses the importance of…

This book is about widening life and career options for students in the middle and upper grades through literacy. The book's one overarching assertion is that teachers of all subjects can create engaging learning environments where readers and learners use literacy for personal pleasure and as a tool of mind expansion. It seeks to empower teachers…

Suggests that "branding" students "at risk" draws attention away from political, educational, and institutional failures. Describes how a student's at risk status can be reinforced through inadequate literacy instruction. Discusses how a high school teacher reduces the debilitating effects of at risk labeling and curriculum building by creating a…

Describes how the integration of reading and writing strategies in a learning unit on Mexican American culture heightens eighth graders' awareness of their heritage and helps them improve their literacy. Describes how cooperative meaning making with literature, making connections to home and community, and using literature that is culturally…