The Essentials of Adolescent Literacy: Integrating Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Instruction in Grades 5–12

by Joan Sedita M.Ed.

The science of reading isn't just for younger learners—all middle and high school students, particularly those who struggle with foundational skills, benefit from literacy instruction. This groundbreaking book for Grades 5-12 is a practical guide for teaching reading and writing skills across all subject areas. Developed by Joan Sedita, the expert behind the bestseller The Writing Rope and author of the Keys to Adolescent Literacy professional development course, this book helps secondary educators understand the unique aspects of adolescent literacy. It provides practical suggestions for integrating reading and writing instruction into content-area classrooms and providing data-driven intervention for older struggling students. A must for both preservice preparation and in-service professional development, this book equips teachers, reading specialists, and literacy coaches to teach the literacy skills students need for success in school and life. READERS WILL Access six chapters of evidence-based teaching practices for vocabulary, comprehension, text structure, writing, discussion, and advanced word study Learn how to integrate literacy instruction into all subjects, enabling students to read, write, and discuss content confidently Review how adolescent literacy develops and current adolescent literacy research Learn how to support adolescents with literacy difficulties—including dyslexia and executive function deficits—in both classroom and intervention settings Explore a secondary literacy assessment model that supports individualized, data-driven reading interventions PRACTICAL Implement effective adolescent literacy practices using the included online downloadable templates, worksheets, and other teacher-friendly resources.

280 pages, Paperback

Published November 3, 2025