In today's fast-changing digital world, adolescents face an unprecedented flood of information, media, and communication platforms. Adolescent Literacy: Integrating the Sciences of Reading and Writing in Grades 4-12 equips teachers with the research-based strategies to help students not only keep up, but thrive as readers, writers, and critical thinkers. Drawing on years of research, classroom experience, and collaboration with educators worldwide, Shea Kerkhoff invites teachers to see literacy through a sociocognitive lens-valuing the diverse languages and cultural practices students bring to the classroom and leveraging the learning science and brain research to take literacy to new heights. Much focus in literacy education right now is on the Science of Reading, commonly used to refer to foundational skills in the primary grades. This book is timely as it builds upon the current focus on foundational skills to provide an understanding of what research tells us about effective literacy instruction in grades 4 - 12. We know from previous research that what makes the biggest difference is BOTH a strong foundation of literacy AND comprehensive literacy in elementary and secondary grades. Through practical examples, teacher stories, and adaptable lesson ideas, teachers will find guidance on how to build solid literacy foundations and foster literacy motivation and engagement.

At the heart of the book is a commitment to research-based literacy instruction that advances adolescent literacy across content areas. The book provides a framework for the science of reading and the science of writing within a comprehensive view of literacy. Through chapters on disciplinary literacy and digital literacy, this book shows how educators can integrate inquiry-based reading, source-based writing, and critical media literacy into everyday practice. Whether you teach English language arts, social studies, science, or any subject where reading and writing matter, this book offers an inspiring blend of theory and practice. By the final chapter, readers will feel equipped to help adolescents see themselves as capable and confident contributors to the world's conversations.