Plugged-in to Nonfiction uses an effective yet simple 3-step instructional model for getting ALL students reading. This gradual release of responsibility, based on David Pearson’s model, gives students highly successful strategies for becoming active, passionate, and capable readers.

• STEP 1: Teacher-Directed Instruction

  The first step toward engaging adolescent and teenage students is teacher-led discussion. The Teacher Guide outlines the carefully chosen Core Text, offering teacher-directed strategy lessons and step-by-step guides for classroom implementation. This allows the teacher to model each of the eight power strategies needed to help students negotiate a variety of nonfiction texts.

• STEP 2: Peer-Supported Learning

  Using the gradual release of responsibility model, teachers shift students from whole-class, teacher-directed instruction to guided learning in small groups: Power Strategy Groups. The combination of stimulating texts and a focus on a specific learning strategy creates an environment that supports students’ success with nonfiction text. After a modeled lesson the teacher can observe students’ progress as they practice the strategy on their own.

• STEP 3: Self-Directed Learning

  The final step in the release of responsibility model gives students a chance to experience engaging nonfiction on their own. Using the learning strategies encountered in the other two steps, students use a wide variety of supports, including audio, to understand the text. When used with the creative and challenging strategy lessons, Independent Reading books give students the opportunity to become active, involved readers.