Family Literacy Experiences explores the power of the home-school connection, and shows teachers how to make the world outside the classroom an integral part of compelling instruction.

This book offers a multitude of effective and practical ways that teachers can use what already excites and motivates students. It invites teachers to recognize the rich diversity of literacy experiences outside the classroom and create a parallel classroom where meaningful reading and writing takes place.

This unique resource is organized by genre, and each chapter examines: revealing moments that demonstrate the genre in action;inherent skills of each genre and how to build them into classroom instruction;simple activities that involve students in purposeful learning;an easy assessment frame that addresses the specifics of the genre.

Rooted in the latest research and incorporating the powerful voices of education leaders, students, parents, and teachers, this book provides practical guides for using what excited students to transform classroom learning.