Reading for Understanding: How Reading Apprenticeship Improves Disciplinary Learning in Secondary and College Classrooms

by Cynthia Greenleaf, Ruth Schoenbach, Linda Friedrich

Improve student outcomes in reading and literacy with the latest edition of this bestselling text

The newly revised Third Edition of Reading for How Reading Apprenticeship Improves Disciplinary Learning in Secondary and College Classrooms is the latest iteration of the best-selling, landmark book in the field of adolescent literacy. The book contains strategies for boosting the reading independence of middle, secondary, and college students.

Research conducted by NSF, IES, and OIIhas validated the model taught in Reading for Understanding, demonstrating its effectiveness in raising students’ reading achievement levels.

The authors teach a clear and concise instructional framework for students at all learning levels, from those with special learning needs to those taking honors and Advanced Placement courses. The book also

A direct correlation to disciplinary literacy, making the book an even more valuable resource in a wide range of classrooms Explanation of the social and personal dimensions for building a foundation for engaged learning Discussions of the value of setting aside dedicated class time for independent, silent readingWith collaboration tips that go beyond the classroom and advice on building a cognitive “reading toolbox,” Reading for Understanding is an indispensable resource for teachers at the Grade 6 and up, literacy coaches, reading teachers, community college instructors, and other school leaders.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction, Teaching, Professional Development, Academic

374 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2012

Reviews

[Elizabeth Jorgensen · Rating 2 out of 5]

We read this as an all-school read. It was dense and didn't bring out the joy of reading, nor did it inspire me to improve disciplinary learning. The authors promote their apprentice too much, which my school did not purchase.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not usually a big fan of textbooks, but this is well done. It's practical, and they aren't trying to sell you their boxed system. Many of the tools included would be beneficial in a wide range of classroom settings, not only the reading classroom.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Predicated upon the fundamental yet somehow still revolutionary idea that literacy is the root of all learning—and therefore every teacher is a teacher of reading—this volume thoroughly explains the basic principles of reading pedagogy; in short, readers construct meaning from texts by using specific strategies that facilitate understanding.

The authors clearly explain the social, personal, cognitive, and knowledge-building dimensions of literacy and advocate (wisely) a metacognitive approach to support students as they learn how to learn. More importantly, the text overflows with practical strategies and techniques, some that target reading instruction within the context of a specific subject area (e.g., literacy instruction for science, math, history, etc.) and some that are suitable—with some modification—for most literacy instruction contexts. In addition, authentic “classroom close-ups” illustrate the use of these strategies in actual classrooms ranging from middle school to community college.

An invaluable resource for teachers of all subjects at all grade levels, if you’re interested in helping your students become independent readers and learners, you will want to read this text.

[Tara · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Reading Apprenticeship Program is innovative way to keep kids focused on reading and building literacy skills for their futures... But with limited class time and an continuously growing to-do list, as a teacher I find it difficult to make analyzing a single one page passage the prime focus of a precious class period of time. Yes, there are many elements to the program that can assist my teaching, but it takes quite a bit more effort from an already exhausted teacher to implement these rather basic things. The school year that lies ahead is my guinea pig and this is the manual to guide me, even though I think it requires more realistic connections.

[Tiffany Ingle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed with value from cover to cover. I have used this book and used it and used it. If you are trying to bring change to your classroom and college to create more equity, I highly recommend this book as a professional learning tool.

[Dawn Fable · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read this book, I find new inspiration and ideas to help my students.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was quite amazing. So much (almost overwhelmingly much) theoretical and practical information about how to really help students read--not just decode, but read. I picked it up to participate in an online discussion group with other adult education teachers. Their comments added to my knowledge as well. I'll be digesting this one for a long time, and hope I can start using some of the ideas soon.

[Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a goldmine of educational resources to provide students with the tools and skills to learn how to learn and understand how to gain knowledge and understanding. A vast improvement from the idea of lecture and remember or answer these teacher generated questions and then remember them for a test.

[Teresa Hintze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book, especially if you have students or children who struggle with reading. I am starting to use these strategies in my classroom and can already see a big difference in how I teach and how the students approach their reading.

[Sarah Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this textbook! Definitely much more engaging as far as textbooks go. The graphics and charts were really helpful. I also liked the insights into specific teachers' stories. Overall a good read with many great teacher strategies!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am re-reading this one to examine how my experiences with teaching reading have shifted my thinking and where I might find or notice ideas I missed the first time around.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Practical, research-based ideas for all secondary and post-secondary teachers on how to help students become competent and engaged readers.

[Karma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book from cover to cover. Very useful information for teaching in secondary and college classrooms.

[Shaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had a whole ton of great literacy strategies teachers can use in the classroom to get students to be cognitive and metacognitive while looking into texts.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very user-friendly blend of research, theory, and practical classroom "vignettes." Highly recommended for teachers in every discipline, veteran or novice. >^..^<

[Davida · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm as finished as I can be for now, but I would like to return to this book. Lots of really good ideas that bring together many different aspects of being an effective teacher.

[Laurie]

THE most impactful read of my teaching career. Reading Apprenticeship showed me how to do the things I knew were best for my students. Definitely pushed me to try approaches that were not in my wheelhouse as a social studies teacher, but helped me significantly improve my teaching as I connected with my students and was able to share my expertise in ways that were relevant and motivating to them.

[Marlo Spritzer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hopped around a lot in this one and didn't read every page, but what I didn't read I pick up in my RA training. Using these strategies has definitely transformed my approach and I highly recommend to others. My primary criticism is that in a world where teachers are encouraged to integrate technology in our instruction, this text falls to step up to the challenge. I've had to figure out lots of ways to marry the two approaches and have been successful, but fir those who are less tech savvy, suggestions for tech integration with RA would be a plus.

[Mills College Library]

428.40712 S3653 2012

[Liv Harlow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Repetitive at times, but a must-read for teachers. As far as textbooks go, this is an interesting read packed with valuable insight and strategies that can be used in all content areas.