Did you know that some states in the U.S. use third grade reading statistics to determine how many prison beds they will need ten years from now? When I first read that, I became absolutely convinced of the crucial importance of literacy in an elementary classroom and the major role that K-6 teachers play in shaping the future of society. The following books will sharpen your language arts instruction program, improving not just your curriculum but maybe even the world!
1) Mosaic of Thought
Subtitled "Teaching Comprehension in a Reader's Workshop," authors Ellin Oliver Keene and Susan Zimmermann outline how to use the seven reading comprehension strategies as the basis for literacy instruction in your classroom. When I read this book, the ideas truly clicked with me as the most sensible and effective way to teach reading.
2) Guiding Readers and Writers
The teachers at my school are currently holding study groups to discuss and collaborate on the ideas presented in this very practical book. Building off of the Reader's Workshop ideas presented in Mosaic of Thought, this is one of the books that you'll want to keep close at hand for constant reference and guidance as you teach. It's long, but you don't have to read it cover to cover to gain valuable teaching strategies from it.
3) Strategies That Work
Another complement to Mosaic, the book Strategies That Work lives up to its name by providing extremely practical and proven ways to teach reading comprehension. Use this book as a road map for implementing your reading program.
4) Nonfiction Matters
With all of the incredible children's literature we enjoy daily in our classrooms, it's easy to forget about nonfiction. But, kids love it and if you want a balanced literacy program that prepares children for middle and high school, you really can't ignore nonfiction. Geared towards grades 3-8, this book shows you exactly how to teach nonfiction comprehension strategies to children.
5) Goodbye Round Robin
Are you tired of reading out loud in the traditional "Round Robin" style? This book says adios to this outdated and often ineffective method of oral reading and offers 25 alternatives for you to try.
