Unlocking Complex Texts: A Systematic Framework for Building Adolescents' Comprehension

by Laura Robb

Give students the tools they need to tackle complex texts with these research-based, classroom-tested lessons from master teacher Laura Robb. The three-part system—teacher modeling, guided practice, independent practice—scaffolds students as they learn how to preview a text to build background knowledge; use a concept map to expand vocabulary; identify key details and make logical inferences; determine main ideas and themes; analyze characters, events, and ideas; interpret language; analyze text structure, and more! Includes 46 short texts on CD for modeling and practice, along with text-specific discussion questions, multiple-choice assessments, writing tasks, student response sheets, assessment tools, and if-then scaffolding charts to help teachers support struggling and reluctant learners. The rigorous instruction leads to solid text-based comprehension of literary and informational text. A must have for meeting the CCSS! For use with Grades 5 & Up.

272 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2013

About the author

Author, teacher, coach, and speaker, Laura Robb has completed 43 years of teaching in grades 4-8.

She presently coaches teachers in reading/writing workshop at Powhatan School in Virginia and coaches teachers in grades K-8 in Staunton, Virginia, Long Island, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, and West Nyack, New York.

Reviews

[Ted · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a read from front cover to back cover book, but man is there great stuff here. Middle school teachers should read, embrace, and use this book. It offers at least a dozen different lessons you can do with a single short complex text. A CD is included featuring about 50 shorts texts-all types of texts from poetry to argument. The one undeniably cool thing about this book is Laura Robb has used and is using these lessons in her classroom. Great stuff

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great guide to incorporating more rigorous text and vocabulary into middle school reading classrooms. I've used some of Robb's suggested texts and spent a few days with each one in my classroom and my students vocabulary and critical thinking have improved each time.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

We read this book for PD at school. I got through chapter 5 and decided not to finish. I love the step-by-step plan--and figured I could just go to the book when I want to teach a particular genre. I am counting it as a finished book thought because I can. LOL!

[Judi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since I am a nerd, and I read teacher resource books during my vacation, I am glad that I picked this one. It is a great resource book for middle school teachers, and I will put Robb's ideas to good use. Her ideas work well with the CCSS.

[Morgan Aiello · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good ideas - definitely more for middle school than fifth grade, but strong lessons

[Gladys Landing-Corretjer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic resource. A must read!

[Dixie Keyes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some helpful, routine ideas to approach "close reading" with practical handouts and readings provided on a CD.