For future literacy teachers just beginning their professional education, nothing's more important than the first core text that builds their foundation for classroom success. That's why every preservice teacher should start with this introductory reading textbook, ideal for teaching fundamental literacy skills to students in pre-K Grade 6.

Based on cutting-edge research, best practices, and the newest professional standards, this core literacy textbook is a must for tomorrow's teachers because it



Focuses on pre-K Grade 6 critical years for mastering the basics of literacy and becoming a successful reader
Covers every key element of reading: oral language, phonemic awareness, phonics, alphabetic principle, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, handwriting, spelling, and writing
Fully explains the new Common Core State Standards and links them explicitly with each key reading component
Highlights best assessment practices for each reading component and makes clear connections between assessment and effective instruction
Weaves RTI guidance throughout, so teachers can implement this highly effective model in their own classrooms
Includes contributions from highly respected experts in reading instruction (see box)
Advances differentiated instruction and inclusion, with guidance on teaching struggling students and English language learners
Prepares educators for the real world of teaching, with ready-to-use tips on addressing all the elements of reading instruction in their allotted classroom time
Examines current legislation, including the reauthorisation of the Early and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and what it means for classroom instruction


Expertly organised and student-friendly, this practical text makes complex material easy to learn with case studies and classroom examples, scripted demonstrations of lessons, in-class exercises, chapter objectives, glossary terms, engaging photos, and short summaries of key information. And each chapter includes sample assignments ideal for tutors or student teachers, so they can immediately translate their knowledge into effective instruction.

The essential first step in every reading teacher's professional preparation, this accessible textbook lays a solid foundation for future coursework and for a successful career of shaping confident, competent readers.

Martha Hougen, Ph.D. is the principal investigator of the College and Career Readiness Initiative: English/Language Arts Faculty Collaborative. Hougen's recent work focuses on improving preservice teacher education by providing university teacher educators with ongoing professional development and collaborative opportunities. She has worked with struggling readers as a general and special education teacher and administrator and as a university faculty member. She consults with state departments, universities, and school districts across the country on teacher education, reading, and special education.

Susan M. Smartt, Ph.D., is Senior Research Associate, National Comprehensive Center for Teacher Quality, Vanderbilt University. She also teaches reading courses and provides consulting and professional development services to states and local school districts.

Stephanie Al Otaiba, Ph.D., is a professor of teaching and learning at Southern Methodist University. A former special education teacher, her research focuses on early literacy interventions for students with or at-risk for disabilities, Response to Intervention (RTI), and teacher training. She is the author or coauthor of more than 130 articles and chapters. Dr. Al Otaiba is serves on the executive board of the International Dyslexia Association and is the Editor of the Journal of Learning Disabilities..



Suzanne Carreker, Ph.D., CALT-QI, joined Lexia Learning in 2015 as Principal Educational Content Lead, where she spearheaded the curriculum design of a groundbreaking reading program for stru