This practical and empowering book addresses the challenges facing educators, school administrators, and families in low socio-economic status urban settings, and presents field-tested strategies for promoting reading, writing, and oral language success. Using research-based and classroom tested best practices, this book features thorough research reviews, instructional models, resources, and portraits of exemplary urban classrooms.


With contributions from some of the most esteemed figures in the literacy field, this new resource covers:


* what highly effective literacy instruction looks like in today's urban classroom
* understanding - and counteracting - the factors that put poor children at risk
* when diversity is the norm: making instruction welcoming to all
* lesson plans and lists of children's literature that meet urban students' specific needs
* keys to building strong family and community partnerships.


Providing a wealth of ideas that can readily be put into practice.