BEGINNING READING - EDUCATIONAL-TOOLS FOR DIVERSE LEARNERS

At a national level, major directives have been initiated to increase achievement outcomes in virtually every subject area. In this article, we provide a framework for improving the instructional tools in begin ning reading with particular emphasis on their importance for children with diverse learning needs. A rationale based on current practice an d the challenges of increasing diversity in classrooms is provided. Cr itical dimensions or big ideas of beginning reading are identified and related to curriculum design principles to improve learning outcomes.