Making Sense of the Science of Reading: Context Matters - Hardcover

by Andrew P. Johnson (Author)

Is the Science of Reading (SOR) a movement? A body of research? A rigid prescription for how to teach? This witty but serious--and very accessible--book distills both the intrinsic value and the notable limitations of current SOR approaches. Andrew P. Johnson provides crucial context for some of the claims about reading instruction that are frequently cited under the SOR banner. Twenty-one concise chapters separate fact from myth about commercial reading curricula; whole-language approaches; decoding, phonics, and phonemic awareness; direct and explicit instruction; and the role of reading assessment. The book guides educators to become more discerning consumers of research so they can make informed instructional choices for diverse learners.

Author Biography

Andrew P. Johnson, PhD, is Professor of Literacy Instruction and Distinguished Faculty Scholar at Minnesota State University, Mankato. A former elementary classroom teacher for 9 years, he is the author of numerous books and over 50 book chapters and academic articles related to literacy, learning, and the human condition. Dr. Johnson is a managing editor of the Journal of Equity and Social Justice in Higher Education, the host of the podcast The Reading Instruction Show, and a founding member of the International Literacy Educators Coalition. His website is www.teaching-reading.com.