High-quality preschool programs are essential to improving children’s outcomes in reading achievement and leveling language and literacy disparities among students from diverse backgrounds. Grounded in state-of-the-art research evidence, this practice-oriented book demonstrates how preschool professionals can create, evaluate, and sustain exemplary programs. Chapters from leading authorities cover coaching, assessment, and differentiation, as well as explicit strategies for teaching English language learners and helping at-risk readers. Discussion questions and suggested activities for professional development are included, as are reproducible assessment forms and planning tools for use in the classroom.
This volume offers the most comprehensive, up-to-date description of the wide array of second language programs currently available to undergraduate students in the United States and abroad. It brings together, for the first time, detailed descriptions of programs in foreign language, English as a second language (ESL), dual language (bilingual), American Sign Language, Native American, and heritage languages. Addressing both theory and practice, the volume presents the historical development, current practices, and future directions of each type of program, along with detailed case studies.
Fundamentals of Finite Element Analysisis is intended to be the text for asenior-level nite element course in engineering programs. The mostappropriate major programs are civil engineering, engineering mechan-ics, and mechanical engineering. The nite element method is such a widely used analysis-and-design technique that it is essential that undergraduate engineering students have a basic knowledge of the theory and applications of the technique.
Through case studies of successful programs, evidence from research, and illustrations from their extensive experience, Joyce and Showers help educators design programs that measurably improve student achievement. They fill the gaps in staff development programs by answering vexing questions from both teachers and administrators:
* How can we develop the skill to implement new curricular and instructional knowledge? * How can we embed the study of student learning into staff development? * How can we adapt learning environments to meet individual needs?
The focus of the book is on the potential for both personal and organizational growth inherent in staff development programs. School renewal ultimately depends on the individual development of all its members. Joyce and Showers lead the way to creating a community in which organizers, providers, teachers, administrators, and students learn and grow together to achieve the goal of lasting student achievement.
Librarian-humorist Rob Reid, author of Something Funny Happened on the Way to the Library, offers 18 new wacky and offbeat programs designed to delight the elementary school-age crowd. Each program opens with a thumbnail overview, followed by combinations of poetry, picture books, chapter book excerpts, and short stories. Audience involvement includes word play, reader's theater, dramatics, writing, music, sports, or crafts. Reid also shows how these programs can be adapted for younger (preschool) or older (fifth and sixth grade) children.
