Finding the Right Texts: What Works for Beginning and Struggling Readers

Until now, no single volume has comprehensively examined the crucial question of how to select the most appropriate reading material for beginning or struggling readers. From leading authorities, this book meets an important need by reviewing the best available research on the role of specific text features—including linguistic and conceptual content—in supporting the development of proficient reading. Also explored are ways that teacher scaffolding can help students who have difficulties with particular aspects or types of texts. The book considers approaches to adapting the design and selection of texts to reinforce reading skills and provide well-paced challenges for K–6 students at a variety of ability levels.

Misty Sailors, PhD, is Associate Professor of Literacy Education in the Department of Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her current research focuses on the instruction that surrounds elementary classroom texts, teacher education, and language policies related to reading instruction in international settings. Dr. Sailors is the Primary Investigator of a Teacher Quality Professional Development Reading grant. She also directs a project to develop reading and content-area materials for elementary learners in South Africa, funded by the United States Agency for International Development. Dr. Sailors is a recipient of the President’s Distinguished Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence from the University of Texas at San Antonio and the Recognition Award for Emerging Scholars from the American Association of University Women.