Reading and Writing with Understanding

This text provides a thoughtful vision of comprehension and a balanced perspective on writing. It builds on the foundation of primary grade reading and writing to promote a kind of "literacy fitness" for the increased demands of content area reading and writing in the middle grades and for the increasingly complex and demanding literacy challenges that he ahead.---Dorothy S. Strickland, Samuel De Witt Professor of Education, Ruteers, Graduate School of Education

The upper elementary grades are a special time for young learners. Most 9- to 11-year-olds have gained fundamental reading skills and are building their proficiency with the reading process. They're ready for new challenges---for the excitement and rewards of learning through reading and writing with increasing comprehension.

What instruction is needed to prepare these learners to meet---and beat---these challenges? What do fourth and fifth graders need to grow as thoughtful readers and effective writers? What can teachers do to prepare them for the more complex texts they'll encounter in middle school and high school?

In Reading and Writing With Understanding, you'll find classroom applications specially targeted for students at this critical stage in their literacy development. Developed as part of the influential New Standards project, the book is informed by the best thinking and research of a committee of distinguished educators. Included are dozens of student writing samples and commentaries on student work that create a vivid, richly textured picture of young people engaged in comprehension.

With this book, you'll gain insight on what to look for as your students deepen their comprehension of language and texts. You'll learn how to set expectations for their learning and hone your teaching to help your students succeed in your classroom---and beyond.

Sally Hampton is a senior fellow for America's Choice, Inc., in Fort Worth, Texas, USA.
Lauren B. Resnick is a professor and director of the learning Research and Development Center at the University of Pittsbutrgh, Pennsylvania, USA.