Modeling the idea that the best literacy teacher is the informed literacy teacher, this text identifies evidence-based practice, and emphasizes assessment and evaluation through literacy development as the basis for effective literacy teaching.  Chapters explain more than what to do in a literacy classroom – they help teachers understand why to do it. The text further gives readers an understanding of the nature of reading and writing, equips them with the materials to teach, and develops in them the vital ability to select from the knowledge of “best practices” for meeting children's individual needs.