This book is based on the belief that deep subject knowledge of language and literature provides a foundation for effective teaching and learning. It provides a guide to the range of genres and characteristic features of English language fiction written for children, and is designed to help readers: (1) Develop their understanding of literature…

This paper discusses the similarities in the difficulties that developmental writers and non-native English speakers/writers bring to the classroom and how this can influence instructors' choices of pedagogical strategies. The paper proposes a method of teaching that encourages teacher comfort with basic writing such that student work remains the…

Discouraged and dissatisfied with their students' responses to a compilation of Arthurian legends, two ninth-grade teachers developed an approach to teaching the legends that exposes students to numerous versions (including those written and illustrated for children) of the legends and allows them to pick their own Arthurian legend for reading and…

Based on the idea that conversational interaction between students and teachers in the classroom is the best way to learn, this book focuses on classroom talk about book-related topics. The teachers represented in the book initiate literature discussion groups, book clubs, and literature circles, and students share the thoughts and feelings that…

In separate interviews, Andrew, Ellen, and Caroline, English teachers from the same high school, each pause thoughtfully when asked about how their students respond to literature. Each day, they work carefully with scores of students--organizing lessons, reading together, observing and assessing student work. A study sought to place teachers'…

Although people may be making progress toward global understanding and multicultural acceptance, there are still "miles to go." Only when an individual can view the members of other cultures as people of equal value will s/he be able to truly understand the perspectives of another. Unfortunately, classroom teachers are rarely equipped to…

"The Merchant of Venice," even in its own time, was considered William Shakespeare's most controversial play. Now, one of the most popular read and performed works, the play raises even more important issues for today, particularly anti-Semitism and the treatment of Jews. The analysis of the play in this casebook helps students interpret…

Intended for teachers, this workbook uses 20 well-known children's books as models to teach expository and narrative writing skills. The workbook teaches students about brainstorming, focus, organization, elaboration, and writing conventions with readily-available quality children's literature, such as "When I Was Young in the…

Book Club started over 12 years ago with the goal of creating an alternative context for reading instruction--one that would get students excited about reading and discussing books. Since then, Book Club's combination of excellent literature, relevant writing activities, and student-led discussion groups has proven effective in classrooms. This…

The years when a young child's language skills are "exploding" are the years between three and five. What can make a dramatic difference in a child's life is if parents take a few minutes a day to read to him or her. Reading to a child helps him or her become a successful reader. The child develops a sense of phonics and learns that stories have a…

There is a strong link between the notion of childhood prevalent in a society and presumptions about children as readers. Versions of "Little Red Riding Hood" written in different centuries illustrate how the character of texts for children have changed as society's views of children and of education have evolved. (PP)

Describes a university class project designed to help pre-service and in-service teachers explore the ways children and adults respond to the same text. Considers the importance of discussion for the creation of meaning, the support of literary awareness, and insights about the nature of children's responses to reading. (SR)

Considers how the use of a picture book with adolescents enhances lessons and evokes aesthetic responses. Reports 11th and 12th graders' efferent and aesthetic responses to the poignantly evocative narrative paintings portrayed in the wordless picture book "The Middle Passage" by Tom Feelings. (SG)

Illustrates reader-response theory by discussing a piece of Chinese art, "A Book from the Sky." Examines the relationship between and among viewer, text or artwork, and artist; and attempts to determine the meanings viewers of different ages, genders, ethnicity, and professions construct in reaction to the work of art and to postmodern…

Describes a literature discussion group consisting of eleven social studies representatives involved in a discussion of children's multicultural literature and articles. Focuses on story as a resource for exploring diversity and for sharing personal experiences and responses with others. Includes the discussion group's schedule and a list of…