Book Review 4

Towards a Reading-Writing Classroom by Andrea Butler and Jan Turbill was interesting and easy to read.  In the book, published by the Primary English Teaching Association in 1984, and Heinemann Educational Books, Inc. in 1987, Butler and Turbill stated their purpose clearly "It is our hope that this book will lead more teachers to move towards establishing similarly productive, happy and stimulating reading-writing classrooms in their own schools."

In the text, the authors explained Dr. Brian Cambourne's theory regarding best conditions under which children learn to speak, and then presented 'snapshots' of a variety of classrooms reflecting that belief.  Frank Smith's idea "Children must read like a writer, in order to learn how to write like a writer" (Smith 1983, p. 562) figures prominently throughout the test. The classroom 'snapshots' included were specific and enthusiastically presented.

I found Towards a Reading-Writing Classroom to be informative, and thought provoking.  Once again, I had to ask myself, "Do I truly believe in, and support, the direct instruction model I use?" After considerable thought, I've concluded that I do want to continue, yet, I want to add in other pieces.  The authors have persuaded me of: 1) the importance of making thoughtful selections when I read aloud, and familiarizing myself with the text, 2) the value of integrating reading and writing instruction, 3) the significance of making reading and writing  purposeful in the child's eyes, and 4) the necessity of providing a variety of reading materials to my students.

In conclusion, I found Towards a Reading-Writing Classroom both stimulating and useful.  I believe even more strongly in what I currently do in reading, yet, I see the need to implement in that area, as well as writing.  I am excited about giving my students many more opportunities to read and write during the coming year.