Strive-for-Five Conversations: A Framework That Gets Kids Talking to Accelerate Their Language Comprehension and Literacy (The Science of Reading in Practice)

Teachers know that encouraging young children to talk and listen improves their ability to communicate. This book gives them a power tool aligned with the science of reading: the “Strive-for-Five” framework. These responsive conversations start with what children say and continue as the teacher listens and responds over five turns―with the goal of stretching their talking and thinking, knowledge, vocabulary, reasoning, and other skills that underpin reading success.

In an accessible format that contains audio and video clips, along with classroom anecdotes and model conversations, Zucker and Cabell show why Strive-for-Five conversations are important and how teachers can use them to engage children and develop their language comprehension. As teachers use the framework to build students’ knowledge, vocabulary, reasoning, and other skills that underpin reading success, they'll also see students’ confidence grow as they share their individual stories, ideas, and questions.

Tricia Zucker, Ph.D. is an education researcher, former teacher, and mom of three girls. She is a Professor of Pediatrics and Co-Director of the Children’s Learning Institute at University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Dr. Zucker’s research focuses on early literacy and language development for children experiencing learning difficulties.

Sonia Cabell, Ph.D., is an associate professor of reading education in the School of Teacher Education and the Florida Center for Reading Research at Florida State University. A former second grade teacher and literacy coach, Dr. Cabell’s research focuses on early literacy instruction. She serves as an advisor for a variety of national organizations and state departments of education.