Robust Comprehension Instruction with Questioning the Author

“The pioneering developers of QtA have examined the research, observed classroom discussions, and talked with teachers using QtA to further develop their effective approach. They have expanded QtA to include vocabulary and writing components along with text discussion. In particular, I am impressed with the numerous examples of QtA in action. Bravo!”

—Timothy Rasinski, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Literacy Education, Kent State University


“A gem. Beck, McKeown, and Sandora synthesize decades of research and insight to show how teachers can effectively and authentically teach comprehension alongside vocabulary in any genre, subject, or grade level.”

—Jon Gustafson, MA, sixth-grade teacher, Columbia Heights Public Schools, Minnesota


“Wow! This book will appeal to teachers of all levels and all subjects. It is the kind of treasure you get from the focused attention of inspired researchers who are also great-hearted teachers. This transformative book is a trove of insight and research-backed strategies for improving students' engagement, reading, writing, thinking, and problem solving. I am particularly excited about how QtA focuses on the intelligence behind the text, and how that intelligence structures texts for meaning and effect. This translates nicely to helping readers make meaning, increase their capacity to identify and evaluate 'fake news,' incorporate audience considerations into their own writing, and much else.”

—Jeffrey Wilhelm, PhD, Distinguished Professor of English Education, Boise State University


“In this timely, highly instructive book, Beck, McKeown, and Sandora remind us that comprehension depends on the reader’s active engagement in making meaning from text, and provide classroom teachers with instructional tools and scaffolded supports. The book is informed by years of impactful research, thousands of classroom QtA lesson observations, and teacher feedback. It digs deep into QtA essentials, such as planning for lessons, formulating initial and follow-up Queries, and teaching vocabulary and writing in the context of QtA. The book provides authentic, relevant moves for productive discussions and showcases a teacher’s journey with using QtA to facilitate student transfer and independence. The teacher-friendly format and relevant classroom examples make this book a valuable professional development resource or text for graduate-level reading/literacy education and English language arts courses.”

—Vassiliki (Vicky) Zygouris-Coe, PhD, School of Teacher Education, University of Central Florida