Designing Early Literacy Programs, Second Edition: Differentiated Instruction in Preschool and Kindergarten

This acclaimed teacher resource and course text describes proven ways to accelerate the language and literacy development of young children, including those at risk for reading difficulties. The authors draw on extensive research and classroom experience to present a complete framework for differentiated instruction and early intervention. Strategies for creating literacy-rich classrooms, conducting effective assessments, and implementing targeted learning activities are illustrated with vivid examples and vignettes. Helpful reproducible assessment tools are provided. Purchasers also get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials in a convenient 8 1/2 x 11 size. New to This Edition *Fully restructured around a differentiated instruction model. *Incorporates response-to-intervention concepts and principles. *Chapter on exemplary prevention-focused classrooms, with an emphasis on playful learning. *Additional appendices: multipage assessment scoring record plus sample completed forms. *Links instruction to the Common Core State Standards.

Table of Contents:
1. Who Is at Risk for Reading Difficulties?: Implications for Early Literacy Prevention and Intervention Programs 2. Accelerating Children's Language and Literacy Learning in Exemplary Prevention Classrooms 3. Keeping the End Goal in Mind: Teaching for Knowledge and Comprehension Gains 4. Literacy Development and Its Assessment 5. Using Assessment to Plan Differentiated Instruction 6. Small-Group Differentiated Instructional Activities for Early Emergent Readers and Writers 7. Small-Group Differentiated Instructional Activities for Later Emergent Readers and Writers 8. Small-Group Differentiated Instructional Activities for Experimenting Readers and Writers 9. Differentiated Instruction in Action Appendix A. A Primer on Phonics for Teachers Appendix B. Literacy Assessments Appendix C. Literacy Assessment Scoring Record Appendix D. Literacy Assessment Scoring Records for Eric, Sarah, Marceli, and Jacob

About the Author :
Lea M. McGee, EdD, is the Marie M. Clay Chair of Reading Recovery and Early Literacy at The Ohio State University. She studies the effects of preschool classroom interventions on preschool and kindergarten literacy achievement, the impact of kindergartners' fingerpoint reading on their first-grade text reading, young children's responses to literature, and the effects of a systematic approach to drama and retelling on kindergartners' comprehension and vocabulary development. Dr. McGee is coauthor of Teaching Literacy in Kindergarten, among other books. Donald J. Richgels, PhD, is Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus in Literacy Education at Northern Illinois University. His research interests are preschool and kindergarten classroom practice and the relationship between spoken language acquisition and literacy development.

Review :
"An incredibly rich resource for preschool and kindergarten teachers and administrators. At this time, when the focus of kindergarten instruction, especially, is often narrowed to a few 'essential' literacy skills, this book presents a blueprint for providing a stimulating and effective instructional program to all children. For anyone interested in hitting all of the critical language and literacy bases in the early years--in a thorough, efficient, integrated, and meaningful way--this engaging book is a 'must read.'"--Judith A. Schickedanz, PhD, School of Education (Emerita), Boston University "In this second edition of their outstanding book, McGee and Richgels offer new evidence and insights about the design of effective early literacy programs, especially for children most vulnerable to risk. Their focus on both prevention and intervention provides the detailed guidance that teachers need not only to support, but also to accelerate children's language and literacy learning in the early years. The in-depth case studies and the 'differentiated instruction in action' examples are truly special and valuable features."--Kathleen A. Roskos, PhD, Department of Education and Allied Studies, John Carroll University "An exciting update of a foundational text. Useful in undergraduate and graduate courses on reading development and early childhood education, this text draws direct connections between theory and practice. Particularly compelling is the way that theoretical concepts are brought to life through real-life examples and applications. I recommend this book for every teacher-in-training and experienced literacy educator."--Laura M. Justice, PhD, EHE Distinguished Professor of Educational Psychology, The Ohio State University "This timely second edition reminds us of how early literacy instruction lays a foundation for children's later academic success. In a clear and concise manner, McGee and Richgels provide preservice and inservice teachers with a rich understanding of literacy development and practical ideas for teaching young children. Further, this important resource offers invaluable suggestions for differentiating instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners."--Barbara A. Bradley, PhD, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Kansas