NCTE offers consultants and services on literature instruction that when used together, provide extended learning opportunities for teachers and makes a positive impact on learning. These opportunities include the Pathways Program, Web Seminars Resource Kits and books on literature for study groups. Consultants are available to present one-day or multi-day presentations or provide year-round consulting. All workshops and presentations can be customized to meet your specific needs. Make your request today!
Literature Studies (Grades 4-12)
Consultant: Peggy Albers
Many teachers wonder how to conduct strong literature discussions. In this presentation, teachers study several texts, linked by theme or author, and participate in a literature discussion. Following, teachers learn the importance of text sets to engage students in literature studies, and also learn how to design and ask questions that encourage students to think deeply and actively about literature.
Teaching the Classics in the Inclusive Classrooms
Consultant: Katherine McKnight
Grade Level: 6-12
This presentation is based on the material in Teaching the Lliterature Classics in the Inclusive Classroom, grades 6-12. Jossey Bass. The classics are not too difficult for our students to read, understand, and appreciate when the appropriate teaching strategies were used. This book contains discussion, teaching ideas, and full lessons that were developed by the presenter who has experience teaching in diverse middle and secondary high school classrooms. All of the lessons and ideas were developed through her teaching experience and encourage students to be active readers and learners as they experience the rich human experience of these literature classics.
Teaching Literature / “New Writers, New Readers—Voices of a New Generation”
Consultant: Susanne Rubenstein
Audience: 9–12 Teachers
This workshop offers high school teachers a rationale for integrating contemporary literature (1970’s to the present) into the curriculum, along with the materials and classroom activities to make this addition successful. This literature includes minimalist fiction (with a special emphasis on Raymond Carver), “Brat Pack” fiction, the writing of the Vietnam War, diverse voices, New Journalism, and work by the newest writers of the 21st century, and the workshop can be tailored to include any or all of the above. As a supplement to the more traditional curriculum, this “new literature” has the potential to turn reluctant readers into eager readers because it addresses the concerns and issues of adolescents today in language that speaks to them.
Linking Literature and Mathematics in Meaningful Ways
This session by David and Phyllis Whitin focuses on how children’s literature can be a powerful vehicle for children to discuss and explore important mathematical ideas. David and Phyllis will outline a rationale for integrating literature and mathematics and criteria for selecting math-related books. They will acquaint participants with some of the best books currently available, and share examples of how teachers have used these books in interesting ways with their students. View the workshop agendas from a recent event in Lancaster, South Carolina.