Full Description
Why is it that more people can't read and write? Why are there still so many vastly different methods of teaching literacy? Why do people still argue about it?
Reading for Life examines these three questions, addressing the less evidence supported ideas about teaching reading and writing which are still alive and well in schools all over the world. This accessible guide bridges the gap between research and practice, translating academic findings into practical suggestions and ready-to-use techniques.
Written in an approachable style and with informative graphics, vignettes and interviews woven throughout, this book covers:
the components of literacy, including phonics, vocabulary and fluency
the history of approaches to literacy teaching and an overview of the key figures
government-level inquiries into the provision of reading and writing teaching
the mindset which leads to acceptance of poor practice
the essential components of an effective literacy program with practical advice on selecting resources to get the job done well
Reading for Life helps educational practitioners make informed decisions about which teaching methods to reject and select, and empowers parents to ask the right questions of professionals and policy makers. This book is a timely exploration of poor teaching methods and is an innovative, fresh assessment of how high quality literacy teaching can be provided for all.
Contents
Notation Guide Foreword Preface Acknowledgements Secion 1: More than just talk Chapter 1. A Simple View Chapter 2. Oral Language Development Chapter 3. Phonological Awareness Chapter 4. Phonics Chapter 5. Fluency Chapter 6. Vocabulary Chapter 7. Comprehension Chapter 8. Underlying Processes for Reading Chapter 9. The Consequences of Low Literacy Section 2: The reading wars Chapter 10. The Major Players Chapter 11. Children Left Behind Chapter 12. Rose to the Occasion Chapter 13. The Land of Oz Chapter 14. The Current Scene Section 3:The arc of pedagogy is long, but it bends towards evidence Chapter 15. Why Changing Your Mind Is Good For You Chapter 16. Cults and Catchphrases Chapter 17. Won't Get Fooled Again: Logical Fallacy Chapter 18. Fooling Ourselves: Cognitive Bias Chapter 19. Snake Oil: The Disappointing Truth Chapter 20. Diagnosis: Dyslexia Section 4: Teaching reading and writing Chapter 21. Teaching Reading and Writing: Overview Chapter 22. Teaching Handwriting Chapter 23. Teaching the Alphabet Chapter 24. Teaching Phonological Awareness Chapter 25. Teaching Phonics Chapter 26. Teaching Fluency Chapter 27. Teaching Vocabulary Chapter 28. Teaching Comprehension Glossary
