Word Sorts and More, Second Edition

Kathy Ganske, PhD, is Research Professor, Retired, in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Vanderbilt University. She has been involved in researching, using, refining, and teaching about word study practices since the 1990s. Dr. Ganske's work is grounded in extensive teaching experience in elementary classrooms. Her recent research interests include vocabulary development during small-group word study instruction and literacy reform in challenging schools. Dr. Ganske is the author, coauthor, or editor of several books, including Word Journeys, Second Edition; Word Sorts and More, Second Edition; Mindful of Words; and Comprehension Across the Curriculum, as well as numerous articles and book chapters.

"The second edition highlights Ganske's ‘next-generation’ word study, which strategically integrates academic vocabulary instruction with word study. Ganske provides classroom teachers and specialists with authentic tools and resources for developing students’ knowledge using cognitive engagement, academic conversations, and explicit instruction. Lesson scenarios with accompanying classroom snapshots weave theory into practice, covering the ‘what’, ‘why’, and ‘how’ of effective teaching. Our district is just beginning a deep study of academic language, and I know this book will capably guide us."--Bev Taylor, MSE, K-5 reading specialist, Wasco Elementary School, St. Charles, Illinois"This book continues to be an indispensable professional resource for every elementary teacher and English language instructor. Whether you are a novice or seasoned educator, Ganske provides comprehensive instruction for helping students to discern orthography and vocabulary in greater depth. The SAIL framework, coupled with classroom transcripts, shows how teachers can foster discussion that leads to increased understanding of academic vocabulary and everyday words. The perspectives of several teachers sharing their keen insights and reflections are valuable, as are the book's assessments, suggested games, and sample lessons."--Connie Largent, MS, Principal, Stonegate Elementary School, Zionsville, Indiana"Ganske’s second edition is rich with useful materials to help teachers meet the individual word study needs of their students. Teacher perspectives and examples of teacher–student conversations offer excellent models of high-quality instruction. Time-saving word and picture cards are just right for sorting while engaging students in deep learning about words. The new chapter on English learners and the supplemental online resources are welcome additions, presenting readers with both theoretical and practical insights into helping children learn to read, write, and spell in English.”--Patricia L. Scharer, PhD, Department of Teaching and Learning, The Ohio State University -

• I. Setting the Stage1. Next Generation Word Study2. Voices on Word Learning and Instruction: Teacher Perspectives and Suggestions3. Voices on Word Learning and Instruction: Researchers Address English Learners and Effective InteractionsII. Word Study for Emergent LearnersIII. Word Study for Letter Name SpellersIV. Word Study for Within Word Pattern SpellersAppendix A. Assessments and Sample LessonsAppendix B. Performance RecordsAppendix C. Oh No! Card GameAppendix D. Make-It, Break-It Letter CardsAppendix E. Working with Spanish-Speaking English LearnersAppendix F. Templates and Other MaterialsReferencesIndex of Words and Pictures Used in the Sorts