Teaching for Deep Comprehension: A Reading Workshop Approach

Authors Linda Dorn and Carla Soffos describe the process of comprehension as a reflection of the mind-;a window into the reader's thoughts. In Teaching for Deep Comprehension: A Reading Workshop Approach they discuss comprehension from a socio-cognitive perspective -; specifically, how teachers can use the social context of reading workshop to promote deep comprehension. The book is framed around three guiding questions: Can comprehension be taught?How does a model become a barrier to comprehension?When does a tool become the reason for reading? The authors mesh complex theories of comprehension with everyday practical examples in such a way as to help teachers develop a better understanding of what it means to comprehend while reading. The book's appendix contains a wealth of reproducible materials, including text maps, graphic organizers, book lists, and resource charts. Supporting the text is a DVD containing eighty-five minutes of video from a first-grade reading workshop (shared reading, author studies, share time), an adult book discussion, a fourth-grade reading workshop (mini-lesson and literature discussion groups), and other settings.

Linda Dorn is a professor of reading education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she is the director of the UALR Center for Literacy. She teaches graduate classes in literacy theory, research, classroom practice, and literacy leadership.She has twenty seven years of experience in education, including teaching at the elementary, intermediate, and college levels. Linda is the primary developer and lead trainer of the Partnerships in Comprehensive Literacy Model, a nationally recognized model that uses literacy coaches as agents of change. She has worked with many school districts across the United States and she has collaborated with several state departments on comprehensive literacy initiatives. She believes that school-embedded professional development is critical for supporting teachers in new learning. The schools described in all our books use this approach for improving classroom instruction and student achievement. Our teachers use book clubs, literacy team meetings, and professional study groups. When writing a book, Linda's goal is to mesh theory and practice into a readable text. I enjoy writing with my coauthor, Carla Soffos, who is also my friend and teaching colleague. We have developed a great working relationship. Linda is a native of Tennessee and received her Ph.D. in reading from Texas Women's University. She is married with three children, two stepdaughters, and five grandchildren.