Literature-based Instruction with English Language Learners

Books this month cover a variety of timely topics: the second-generation of guided reading, assessment, a calendar of activities, and literature-based instruction for English language learners. All bring a unique perspective to reading and language arts instruction as authors underscore crucial aspects of reading and writing through their carefully written texts. "Quick reviews" at the end of this column mention visual literacy, tall tales, researching issues for middle schoolers, and more literature-- based reading activities.

So, drum roll please, trumpet fanfare, and curtain up - here are books worth a first and second look. Check your professional shelf or library at school, and if you don't find them, consider a requisition. Or, they may be appropriate for professional book clubs or inservice programs. Remember the NERA web page <http://www. nereading.org> has a link to a bookstore if that's what you need. Happy Reading!

Focusing on the changing linguistic context of many of our classrooms, these authors believe that the power of literature transcends language differences and is the "most effective instructional tool for English language learners in K-12" (p. vii). Instead of learning the language first, then treating literature as a subject, children and adolescents profit from a literature-based process approach to language arts instruction. Literature is both content and process.

Hadaway, Nancy L., Sylvia M. Vardell and Terrell A. Young. (2002). Literature-- based Instruction with English Language Learners K-12. Boston: Allyn & Bacon. 0...