Teaching with Trade Books: A Guide to Supplementing Secondary ELA Curriculum Through Student Choice

Abstract

According to state and national assessments, literacy rates in our country are less than proficient and our high school graduates are not prepared for college and careers. Research indicates that the best way to increase literacy rates is by increasing independent reading. Further research shows that many of the existing secondary curricula offer few opportunities for independent reading. This project includes a body of research on types, purposes, and best practices for teaching reading in secondary education as well as existing standards, curricula, and processes used for the selection of literary texts. This research provided the foundation for creating a step by step guide for teachers to use in augmenting their curriculum and increasing student reading opportunities. The three step guide combines resources and support for Secondary English Language Arts teachers in exploring their curriculum, assessing student literacy, and building a classroom library. The guide walks teachers through exploring their curriculums, identifying their students’ strengths and weaknesses in literacy, understanding the reading practices of their students, and providing their students with books that they will find interesting and informative.According to state and national assessments, literacy rates in our country are less than proficient and our high school graduates are not prepared for college and careers. Research indicates that the best way to increase literacy rates is by increasing independent reading. Further research shows that many of the existing secondary curricula offer few opportunities for independent reading. This project includes a body of research on types, purposes, and best practices for teaching reading in secondary education as well as existing standards, curricula, and processes used for the selection of literary texts. This research provided the foundation for creating a step by step guide for teachers to use in augmenting their curriculum and increasing student reading opportunities. The three step guide combines resources and support for Secondary English Language Arts teachers in exploring their curriculum, assessing student literacy, and building a classroom library. The guide walks teachers through exploring their curriculums, identifying their students’ strengths and weaknesses in literacy, understanding the reading practices of their students, and providing their students with books that they will find interesting and informative.