Language Charts for Reading and Delight

Exemplary early literacy classrooms are filled with warm relationships, the rhythms of language, meaningful project learning and print. Language charts, "kid writing," art, and the lives of children adorn the walls. A systematic plan accelerates literacy in ways that are active, joyful and engaging. The following photo essay provides a glimpse into classrooms where rigorous standards and joyful learning walk hand in hand and the air is alive with language.

This essay is under revision however we hope you enjoy the current photos. We think our expanded essay will be worth a return visit soon.
For more information see the following articles:
Photo Essays on Excellence in Early Literacy
Defining Excellence in Kindergarten Literacy
Developing Phonemic Awareness and Phonic Skills through Songs and Rhymes
"Magical Memory Reading" Precedes Guided Reading Instruction

Special thanks for inspiration and posters to Kay Goines, Becky Leber, Diane Larson, Sally Rudnick, Carolyn Tressider, Jan Kuharic, Barb Sagen, Jennifer Foster and Connie Haas.

Download poems and rhymes:
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