A Literature-Based Interdisciplinary Approach to the Teaching of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.

Using literature as a natural catalyst in an interdisciplinary approach, teachers can effectively bring the basics of reading, writing, and mathematics together to provide a learning atmosphere that promotes risk-taking as a natural and necessary part of learning. Integrating these areas throughout the curriculum enables students to develop a sense of purpose in content area classes. Such a sense of purpose will also help students recognize the connections between what is learned in school and what is used in real life. For students to realize a practical application of reading, writing, and mathematics, materials must be interesting and relevant. (MG)