K-12 literacy rates in the United States are not as high as those in other first-world countries. Halting the decline of literacy is a national effort but must start locally. This book, designed for parents, teachers, librarians, and other concerned citizens, offers practical guidance and solutions to the problem of illiteracy in the United States.

"The Reading Comprehension Blueprint: Helping Students Make Meaning from Text provides readers with a deeper understanding of reading comprehension and recommendations for developing evidence-based instruction. This organizational framework, aligned with the language comprehension strands of Scarborough's Reading Rope, prompts educators to ask themselves critical questions about vocabulary, syntax and sentence comprehension, text structures, students' background knowledge, levels of understanding, and inference. Sample classroom activities, a unit plan, sample lesson plans, and other resources provide valuable models and tools to use for designing and delivering high-quality instruction"--

Filled with clear explanations and doable strategies, this book helps PreK-2 teachers juggle the demands of planning effective instruction and creating a literacy-rich classroom environment. Realistic vignettes illustrate how to set goals, develop standards-based curricula and assessments, establish routines, and organize the classroom space and the daily schedule. The authors demonstrate the nuts and bolts of building an exemplary classroom library and professional teaching library, collaborating as a team with other teachers and specialists, preparing report cards, and communicating with families. Several reproducible forms can be downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.

"Identifying and building on your child's strengths; understanding your child's rights, and how to talk to schools about them; best practices for accommodations and the latest technologies"-- Jacket.

Written expressly for preschool teachers, this engaging book explains the "whats," "whys," and "how-tos" of implementing best practices for instruction in the preschool classroom. The authors show how to target key areas of language and literacy development across the entire school day, including whole-group and small-group activities, center time, transitions, and outdoor play. Detailed examples in every chapter illustrate what effective instruction and assessment look like in three distinct settings: a school-based pre-kindergarten, a Head Start center with many English language learners, and a private suburban preschool. Helpful book lists, charts, and planning tools are featured, including reproducible materials.

This book provides the blueprint for implementation, breaking down barriers, and the steps required to integrate sustainability successfully into any business. It is laid out in easily digestible chapters, with action steps backed up from interviews with sustainability thought leaders, case studies, and the real life experience of the author, as well as over 40 interviews with CSR and Sustainability Directors at various companies on how to "get things done" based on their successes and temporary setbacks. It provides the step-by-step roadmap for implementing sustainability successfully and focuses on "how" companies can realize the benefits of sustainability by engaging the head, heart, and hands of their employees. Also included is a checklist for implementation and tips on how to regain momentum or get "un-stuck" at the end of each chapter as well as additional helpful resources and exercises to overcome the most common barriers towards implementation.

As the inheritors of both the technological innovations of the information age and the social and economic unrest of the world, the generation now in our schools will, to a great extent, determine whether America stays at the top or falls behind in the world order. It is imperative therefore that our students master the skills essential to our timesbut statistics show that a huge majority of American children struggle with the skill most essential to modern life. Our society is fueled by literacy, and if we do not stand up for these struggling learners now, the consequences for both the individuals and society as a whole will be disastrous. Although literacy rates are a nationwide issue, the solution lies surprisingly close to home: Grassroots teams across the country have already begun the movement to reform education, and their successes have been monumental. All that remains is for the message to spread, the spark to ignite. You can be the next leader of change, voicing a clear and compelling call to action. This book will show you how. Just as learning difficulties are not the fault of the student, ineffective instruction is rarely the fault of the teacher, or even of the school district. The grassroots teams that have brought such comprehensive reforms to their districts have done so by harnessing all the tools available to them in the high-speed, interconnected modern world: in-depth scientific research, far-reaching social media, and direct alliances with influential political champions. The Common Core State Standards already implemented in many states are proof of their success. With a firm commitment to opening opportunities for the next generation, and with the right information to guide you along your journey, you too can make a difference in Americas future.