Explore the criteria used by teachers in their selection of books for their students, and find out what manner of books young children prefer.
In addition to picture books, children are introduced to big books, books on tape and computers.
Functional literacy is highlighted as teachers create charts and labels, using both pictures and words, to show students the daily classroom schedule, their daily chores, their classmates’ names, and the proper placement of toys and equipment.
Reading and writing materials are not limited to the library area and writing or art center, but are also kept in the housekeeping and block centers to encourage children to include literacy in all their learning activities.
Finally, educators discuss what constitutes a developmentally appropriate assessment of children’s literacy, and the ways in which such an assessment can aid teachers as they plan their curricula.