This one-of-a-kind text explains why RTI is today's best approach for preventing reading difficulties-and how research on reading profiles can enhance the power of RTI. For practitioners, the book provides a complete, evidence-based blueprint for using RTI and reading profiles in tandem to plan effective core literacy instruction and help struggling readers in Grades K-6, whether they have disabilities or issues related to experience (e.g., ELLs, children from poverty backgrounds). For researchers and policymakers, the book describes ways to help ensure higher reading achievement for every student, including improvements in core reading instruction, use of RTI practices and the Common Core State Standards, and teacher preparation. READERS WILL understand why RTI is the best approach for preventing reading difficulties-and why RTI should be used in identification of learning disabilities learn how diverse reading problems can be understood in relation to poor reader profiles discover how to make sound, research-based decisions about core reading curricula, interventions, and RTI practices such as universal screening explore the most effective interventions for key components of reading and language learn to identify and address word recognition difficulties, comprehension difficulties, and "mixed" reading problems involving both decoding and comprehension clarify which skills and knowledge every teacher of reading should have examine ways to better prepare educators to teach at-risk readers PRACTICAL MATERIALS: The case studies and practical examples cover a broad range of reading problems and help make the latest research findings applicable to everyday practice.

Small groups accelerate student reading growth Elementary students need personal attention from a teacher and a connection with their peers to progress as readers. Small groups offer both! When you work with just a few kids at a time on skills specific to their assets and goals, you provide a safe, trusting environment that encourages students to challenge themselves. Organized by developmental reading stages-emergent readers, early readers, transitional readers, and fluent readers-this timely handbook shows how to engage students where they are, regardless of grade level, and help them progress to the next stage. You'll learn how to assess student skills and needs, flexibly organize groups, plan and teach lessons, select appropriate texts, and differentiate instruction to give every reader a pathway to success. Features include: * Phonics and phonological awareness, reading fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension strategies and tools for each reading stage * At-a-glance charts for assessing current skill level and identifying next instructional steps * 70 downloadable teacher and student resources for planning and instructional use * Dozens of easy adaptations for use in online learning * Over 100 full-color photographs so you can see small groups in action * Reflection prompts and guiding questions for personal and PLC use Whatever your instructional setting, you and your students need the relationships that are best forged in small groups. With this book, you'll be able to differentiate instruction in a way that's manageable and sustainable - and build those relationships that help young readers achieve success.