Among language arts how-to texts, this one really delivers on its name—providing tried, true, and simple methods that WORK, methods that enable students to make meaning of what's presented in the classroom.

With more than five decades of diverse teaching experience between them, Joe Antinarella and Ken Salbu know what works and what doesn't. Their book offers effective approaches, classroom activities, samples, and strategies for teaching reading, speaking, listening, and writing—including reading and writing in the content areas. Organized both topically and chronologically to parallel a school year, the book begins with topics relevant to either starting a teaching career or a new school year—reader response, classroom atmosphere, and designing effective lessons. Middle chapters address areas that interest teachers as the school year progresses—managing workshops and planning interdisciplinary units. Final chapters focus on such end-of-year topics as creating portfolios. Chapters are self contained and need not be read or considered in strict sequence, but used as a resource for ideas, activities, strategies, student samples and responses.

Whether you're a veteran teacher, teacher in training, or teacher educator, more than likely you could use effective, manageable strategies that engage students in solid learning. Don't settle for trial and error. Count on the tried and true—read Antinarella and Salbu.