Preface

Introduction

``We Teached Ourselves'': Good Beginnings in a Diverse Kindergarten

Linda Edwards

Being Loved by Thank Yous!: Rural First Graders Make Connections

Tina A. DeStephen

``I Can Read So Good `Cause I Write So Much'': Learning From and With Inner-City Second Graders

Melanie Ricks

``Try Huff and Puff!'': Discovering Children and Creating Curriculum in One Small Town Third Grade

Cathy Clarkson

``I Hate Words!'': Bridging the Gap with Learning Disabled Fourth Graders

John E. Bertrand

Hoa Means ``Flower'': Language, Learners, and Culture in an ESL Multi-Age Classroom

Kathy Miller

``Won't Nobody Come!'': Four Critical Components for Creating Successful Parent/School Partnerships in Distressed Communities

John E. Bertrand

The Components of Successful Literacy Instruction in the Early Grades

Carole F. Stice

Nancy P. Bertrand

Suggested Professional Readings

Index

Editors and Contributors