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Exploring alternative learning paths with respect, research, and real stories.
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Reading The Hunger Games with Kate
2026 3 1 I have a master’s degree and a doctorate in education, though no specialized training in special education. Still, I have long been fascinated by how children learn—especially how they learn to read. Recently, I had the opportunity to read The Hunger Games with Kate, a homeschooled seventh grader who has struggled with reading for years. I suggested we read together, thinking it might be both enjoyable and helpful for her to spend time reading with someone outside h

Jo Anne Cooper
Mar 13 min read


What's the Best Way to Teach Reading?
2026 2 20 Three years ago today, The New York Times asked this question – “What’s the Best Way to Teach Reading?” Here are my thoughts grounded in James Paul Gee’s theories. Let’s first unpack the sentence. “Best” way implies there are multiple ways. It also implies that one can measure the different ways and arrive at a winner. “Teach” implies students must be instructed. They can’t just be left on their own to learn to read like they probably learned to speak and walk.

Jo Anne Cooper
Feb 203 min read


Loving to Read
I do want them to enjoy reading so that they would choose to do that when they have free time. Kathleen 2015 In my study, almost all the women expressed a wish that their children would not only learn to read but that they would love to read. It was a universal desire. I loved to read books to my grandchildren. They loved The Five Chinese Brothers . Berenstain Bear books held a huge appeal for years. Charlie Brown’s Christmas was a favorite with us all singing Hark the Heral

Jo Anne Cooper
Jan 93 min read
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