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The article focuses on strategies to help students build their reading and writing "muscles." Topics include preteaching vocabulary through methods like "Wordstorm" and anticipation guides, the importance of modeling reading strategies like think-alouds, and using scaffolding techniques such as the "Five Paragraph Schematic" to improve writing proficiency.

Describes how Directed Reading Sequence, a small group cooperative learning method for teaching reading to low achieving students, may be used effectively in middle schools. Presents suggestions for group formation and the four-step Directed Reading Sequence: (1) selecting selection; (2) establishing the roles; (3) intermittent use; and (4) extending the activity. (KB)

Concept of cooperative literacy implies an obligation of educators to increase all students' literacy and numeracy skills. Adapting cooperative learning as both a classroom management and a learning strategy helps manifest this responsibility across the curriculum. Two self-monitoring strategies are the Team Tally Sheet (to help students manage themselves) and the Fact Storm (to help students master reading material). (MLH)

The article discusses the evolution of basic skills in education and the need to redefine them to meet the demands of the 21st century. It mentions traditional basic skills reading, writing, and arithmetic have expanded to include new skills such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration, and also addresses challenges in student engagement, including motivation, cell phone use, lack of digital literacy, and the impact of the pandemic.