Marilyn C. Scala

Step into the pages of this book and learn how students with disabilities benefit from reading and writing in general education classrooms where literacy is a personal, academic, and social event in which children are immersed all day. You’ll read about children with disabilities who learn to listen, speak, read, and write across curriculum areas using fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. And you’ll learn about teachers who work though continual reflection and problem-solving as they design instructional strategies that lead to their students’ success.

Drawing from her extensive background in both inclusive and “resource room” special education, Scala describes literacy learning activities in the inclusive classroom. She advocates using a balanced approach that structures these activities in a variety of formats to ensure that children are continually challenged and successful. The book is organized according to the four aspects of a balanced literacy approach to reading and writing: read-alouds, independent reading, shared reading, and guided reading and writing. You’ll also find a helpful list of recommended reading resources in the appendix.

In a narrative style that is personal and engaging, Scala encourages educators at all levels—whether you’re a first-year novice or an experienced special education professional—to create your own inclusive classroom that incorporates the participation, friendship, and interaction of students with disabilities in a general education setting. You will discover that, although there is no one right way to implement inclusion, the collaboration of students working in groups with general education teachers and specialists who co-teach is key to success.

©2001

ISBN: 0-87207-298-3
Book Code No. 298-553

Elementary/Middle

October 2001 Book Club Selection