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Amanda Ripley set off on a year-long “field trip to the smart-kid countries” to see if she could account for the success of the high achieving students around the world. What made these kids smarter than their American peers? The writer reports in ‘The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got that Way’ (S&S, 2013).
The fall publishing season is in full swing and with it comes a selection of stellar nonfiction to add to library and classroom collections.
Making the reading-writing connection for students in the Common Core era requires models of good literature, a keen understanding of the text craft and structure, and solid skills in writing conventions. This season’s crop of writing guides provides students with all of the above.
In addition to reinforcing some of the basics, the concept books highlighted here encourage kids to explore their familiar milieu with a fresh eye, hone observation skills and learn to note details, and begin to organize and categorize information. The stunning visuals and clever use of language exhibited in these offerings will also rouse imaginations and fortify vocabularies.
With a rattle and a roll, award-winning author and artist Brian Floca takes readers on a ride across the country on the Transcontinental Railroad in ‘Locomotive,’ a September publication from Simon & Schuster.
Authentic learning can only take place in the context of rich curriculum; it’s about encountering big ideas, raising and answering questions, and making sense of evidence. Join Mary Ann Cappiello and Myra Zarnowski as they launch their 2013-14 “On Common Core” column focusing on strategies for integrating content, standards, and children’s and young adult literature into an inquiry-based curriculum.
Stories of strong, determined women who changed the course of history make amazing subjects for booktalks. Elizabeth Blackwell, Louisa May Alcott, and Clara Lemlich are just a few of the tough cookies with indomitable spirit who persevered in the face of adversity, achieved their goals, and became role models for others. They are featured in three recently released books that are perfect for booktalking.
Collaboration between authors often yields unexpected and amazing results, and these young adult titles are no exception. With subject matter ranging from paranormal romance to contemporary realistic fiction, these titles by well-known YA writers will create a stir among teens.
Why are scientists interested in this elusive creature that looks like a cross between a hippo and an elephant? Sy Montgomery explains.
The diversity of our nation and our struggle for civil rights are clear themes in this month’s new titles. Among our selections are two books that address the historic 1963 March on Washington, celebrating its 50th anniversary this month: one in graphic format for older students written by John Lewis, and the other, a picture book by Andrea Davis Pinkney.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the prestigious Caldecott Award, bestowed annually to the “artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.” Here’s a look at a few books about past and recent recipients.
As the authors of new title on inquiry and literacy note, “simply reading about science” cannot replace the “actual doing of science.” Here are a few new titles that offer guidance and suggestions on incorporating hands-on and project-based learning in science and other classrooms.
Launched in 2010 by the Dizzy Feet Foundation to encourage Americans to dive into dance for fun and exercise, National Dance Day takes place on Saturday, July 27. Featuring wiggle-inducing picture books, eye-dazzling nonfiction, and even a graphic-novel autobiography, this list provides a sampling of the wealth of materials available to inspire and inform young dancers and celebrate the joy of movement.
In this month’s column, the lives and work of scientists both past and present feature prominently.
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, two noteworthy titles focus on another nation and its struggle for freedom from British rule: India. Whether drawing comparisons to our country’s fight for independence, learning about Mohandas Gandhi or India for the first time, these books will open readers’ eyes to an important period in this nation’s history.
With her aunt’s wedding day fast approaching, 16-year-old Ann Gilardi is determined to lose ’45 pounds.’ In her effort to do so, she learns more about herself−and her family−than she expected. Author K. A. Barson talks about the genesis of the book.
Packed with child appeal, these tantalizingly creative titles will fortify reading skills and engender enthusiasm for literature, as they challenge readers’ imaginations.
The authors of the Common Core State Standards don’t spell out how text should be taught–that’s been left up to teachers and curriculum developers. A new book offers a framework for developing a content-rich, standards-based curriculum.
Once again, we queried some of our favorite children’s and young adult authors about their summer reading lists. Take a peek to see what Kevin Henkes, Candace Fleming, and Tom Angleberger will be diving into this vacation season.
Jacob Grimm, the folklorist, is dead, and stuck as a ghost. He wants to be reunited with his younger brother Wilhelm, who predeceased him. In Tom McNeal’s suspenseful and haunting new novel, ‘Far Far Away,’ fairy tale and ghost story collide and merge.
