‘In this revised edition, Branley offers a clear, effective explanation of thunderstorms for younger readers. The Emberleys’ bright, well-labeled pictures crystallize the explanation. . . . A useful replacement suggestion, not only for its information but also for its calming influence on youngsters’ fears of a storm’s fury.’ —BL. Best of the Season 1985 (Science Books and Films)

A Balanced Approach to Literacy Instruction provides students with a strong background in using a balanced approach to literacy instruction. Using the National Standards for English Language Arts as a guide, the book calls for classroom teachers to become knowledgeable of and to master several literacy instructional practices, applying each when appropriate. A wide variety of literacy instructional practices are clearly presented. Theories are accompanied by practical, research-based ideas that students can use as they complete their field-based experiences and go out into their own classrooms. In addition to its in-depth coverage of phonics, comprehension, assessment, and vocabulary instructional strategies, A Balanced Approach to Literacy Instruction has wide coverage of technology and writing. Ways to meet the needs of diverse student populations are discussed throughout the book. Students also are provided with thorough lesson plans in reading, writing, and technology for them to consider using or adapting for their field based experiences.

The third-grade classroom is a beehive of activity, in which young readers transition between emergent and more advanced levels of literacy. This expertly written guide brings to life the rewards and challenges of teaching third graders and helps teachers differentiate instruction for diverse learners. Vividly portraying a week in a highly motivating classroom, the authors present easy-to-use ideas and activities for building fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and more. Illustrations, reproducibles, grade-specific resources, and planning tips will make this handy book a boon to third-grade teachers every day of the year.

Read and find out about what causes the flash, crash, rumble, and roll of thunderstorms in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book. Did you know that lightning bolts can be over a mile long? Or that they may come from clouds that are ten miles high? Storms can be scary, but not if you know what causes them. Before the next thunderstorm, grab this book by the expert science team Franklyn Branley and True Kelley and learn all about thunderstorms. This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It's a Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, which means the book explores more challenging concepts for children in the primary grades. The 100+ titles in this leading nonfiction series are: hands-on and visual acclaimed and trusted great for classrooms Top 10 reasons to love LRFOs: Entertain and educate at the same time Have appealing, child-centered topics Developmentally appropriate for emerging readers Focused; answering questions instead of using survey approach Employ engaging picture book quality illustrations Use simple charts and graphics to improve visual literacy skills Feature hands-on activities to engage young scientists Meet national science education standards Written/illustrated by award-winning authors/illustrators & vetted by an expert in the field Over 130 titles in print, meeting a wide range of kids' scientific interests Books in this series support the Common Core Learning Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) standards. Let's-Read-and-Find-Out is the winner of the American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Science Books & Films Prize for Outstanding Science Series.