Bridging the gap between theory and practice, this book focuses on the academic research base in reading and literacy. Using a convenient format that teachers, trainers, and administrators find easy-to-access, the authors survey and select the best published data and research in reading and literacy and then synthesize it for classroom application and instruction. Each of the 75 research-based classroom strategies in the book includes: / A concise description of the recommended classroom strategy or application; / A brief synthesis of the research that supports use of the strategy; / Guidelines for applying the strategy in the classroom; / Precautions about avoiding pitfalls that may occur during implementation of the strategy; and / Source citations for further research and follow-up. The book includes coverage of research linked to current legislation and controversy ( the reading wars ), including Reading First, scripted reading programs, evidence and bilingual learning, but it does not favour or promote specific programmes. The focus always remains on state-of-the-art research translated into practitioner strategies for real learners in real classrooms.