Effective book introductions during guided reading set the stage for young readers to navigate new texts independently and successfully and often shape the outcome of small-group lessons. Many teachers grapple with what introductions might address, what to include, and how to conduct them.
In Powerful Book Introductions, literacy leaders Kathleen Fay, Chrisie Moritz, and Suzanne Whaley speak to these concerns by taking a close look at the purposeful planning that goes into preparing for this small but vital part of today’s guided reading lessons.
Through relatable classroom examples and the wisdom of their shared teaching experiences, the authors show you how to:
- select texts for your small-group lessons specifically based on your students’ needs
- amplify meaning-making from the first moments of your guided reading book introductions and maintain this emphasis through discussion
- introduce visual and structural information as a way to support your readers in meaning-making
No matter where you are in your understanding of guided reading, Powerful Book Introductions will help you as you learn to craft student-centered, meaning-driven book introductions that prepare your readers for success.
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Author Bio
Kathleen Fay has served as a classroom teacher, Reading Recovery teacher, Title I resource teacher, and Literacy Collaborative Coach since beginning her teaching career in 1990. In her current role as Literacy Collaborative District Trainer for Fairfax County Public Schools, Kathleen provides professional development to school based literacy coaches.
Kathleen and Suzanne Whaley wrote their first book, Becoming One Community: Reading and Writing with English Language Learners (2004) to support general education teachers who work in diverse communities and value every student as a full member of the community.
Chrisie Moritz is a National Board certified literacy coach in Fairfax County, Virginia, where she teaches, facilitates professional development sessions, and coaches other educators. She presents at conferences and consults with school districts across the country on various topics related to literacy instruction. Chrisie has taught grades K-2 and served as a Reading Recovery teacher, Literacy Collaborative District Trainer, and adjunct professor at East Carolina University, where she earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Suzanne Whaley is a National Board certified teacher in Fairfax County, Virginia, where she was a classroom teacher and literacy specialist for twenty-two years before working in central office. She currently leads the literacy professional development for reading specialists, principals, school teams, and teachers in her district. Suzanne has taught second through fifth grade and has been a reading specialist and Literacy Collaborative Coach in a vibrant Title I school.
Suzanne and Kathleen Fay wrote their first book, Becoming One Community: Reading and Writing with English Language Learners (2004) to support general education teachers who work in diverse communities and value every student as a full member of the community.