“Every intermediate teacher needs a copy of this book. It is brimming with the tools and resources literacy teachers need to design instruction that will meet the needs of every child. The second edition gives increased attention to writing instruction, including advice on making the reading–writing connection explicit for students. As in the first edition, the book outlines a pragmatic approach to assessment and data-driven instructional planning that is centered on authentic children’s literature. Framed by current research, this updated second edition is perfect for professional book clubs or team-based book study.”

—Valerie Harlow Shinas, PhD, Graduate School of Education, Lesley University


“This book is genuinely useful for improving fourth- and fifth-grade literacy instruction. The sample daily schedules are quite helpful in organizing grade-level instruction and differentiated instruction for a variety of reading levels. I particularly appreciate the focus on vocabulary development. The authors describe strategies that would be effective not only during literacy instruction, but also during science, social studies, and math!”

—Judy Mullins, MEd, EdS, fifth-grade teacher (retired), Spartanburg School District 6, South Carolina


“In this wonderful second edition, the authors provide classroom teachers, literacy coaches and specialists, and students in literacy assessment courses with practical information and resources that can be immediately implemented in classrooms. The book offers a comprehensive framework for assessing and providing tiered instruction to upper elementary students. It addresses all literacy components, including writing.”

—Paola Pilonieta, PhD, Department of Reading and Elementary Education, University of North Carolina at Charlotte