“The six example units give any teacher, either new to the field or with experience and looking for new ideas, the information he or she needs to try engaging children in learning through the arts. A well-developed chapter of resources.”

—PsycCRITIQUES


“Teachers know that children learn by doing and creating. This book gives teachers a deeper understanding of how to teach with and through the arts to increase literacy learning, and provides needed guidance and support. Demonstrated are ways in which a variety of art activities can be used to meet clear instructional goals.”

—Dana Reisboard Korin, doctoral candidate, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey


“This practical and meaningful book is among the first of its kind. Written by content experts who collaborated with dedicated teachers, the book articulates innovative activities and integrated instructional units that reflect the National Standards for Arts Education. Throughout, an abundance of comments and anecdotes from teachers demonstrates the impact of teaching through the arts to enhance literacy instruction.”

—Robin A. Ward, PhD, University of Arizona


“This comprehensive guidebook offers classroom teachers a wealth of practical ideas for language-rich experiences in the arts. In addition, arts specialists will find valuable suggestions for infusing literacy into their lessons. An innovative text, this roadmap for creative differentiation invites all students into literacy learning. For 'hands-on, minds-on' reading and writing, don’t miss Teaching Literacy through the Arts.”

—Barbara A. Marinak, PhD, Millersville University


“McDonald and Fisher have given teachers a practical and effective means of motivating students to improve their literacy skills through artistic expression. This unique text provides resources to help teachers capture students’ attention, build self-esteem, and utilize a multisensory approach to teaching literacy.”

—Francine Guastello, EdD, St. John's University


“Rich communication, interpretation, and comprehension will come alive as students experience the integrated curriculum found in these pages. Included are practical, hands-on activities that not only will engage students in the universal language of the arts, but also will help them construct and increase their literacy skills at multiple levels.”

—Ann Ketch, MSE, Literacy Trainer, Des Moines Public Schools