High Definition

Book excerpt: When kids envision a word as if it were a real person, with a unique voice and personality, they forever imprint the meaning of the word into their memories. Vocabulary lessons become anything but dull, and still blend seamlessly into your writing objectives. Veteran teacher-authors Sara Holbrook and Michael Salinger offer a powerful formula for getting even the most reluctant kids into the act: Well-chosen words + Collaborative discussion + Genre writing + Performance = Strong vocabulary. Students are first given a choice of vocabulary words, then collaborate with their peers in small-group brainstorming discussions that lead to writing exercises in a variety of genres. Finally they share their work aloud, building community and understanding throughout the classroom.--Publisher's description.