EMC’s Mirrors & Windows: Connecting with Literature is a comprehensive resource to support English language arts instruction in grades 6-12. The program includes print, digital (i.e., CD-ROM), and web-based resources. Learning List recently reviewed the print materials for Mirrors & Windows.
Across grades, Mirrors & Windows uses the theme of “mirrors and windows” to help students use literature to reflect on their own lives and to connect with people from other cultures and times. Instruction focuses on developing reading skills using a range of literary and informational texts. Content includes engaging, age-appropriate reading selections appeal to a variety of student interests and reading levels. For each reading selection, teacher editions identify the level of difficulty (e.g., easy, moderate, challenging), factors that may make the selection challenging (e.g., vocabulary, length), and the learning objectives addressed by the selection, key vocabulary, and other program resources to support instruction.
Lessons are organized using the Gradual Release of Responsibility (GRR) model, which frames instructional activities in terms of Guided, Directed, and Independent Reading:
- Guided Reading: Teachers model the strategies used before, during, and after reading.
- Directed Reading: Teachers support students in using reading strategies and ensuring they understand what they read.
- Independent Reading: Students practice skills independently.
About EMC*
EMC is a division of New Mountain Learning—a diversified education company devoted to overseeing the continued development and growth of five prominent and established brands: EMC Publishing, Paradigm Publishing, JIST Publishing, RCL Benziger and Standard Publishing. Each brand provides traditional print and technology products and services for a wide range of learning needs including world language, religion education, secondary and post secondary technical/computer applications training, career counseling, life skills and job search guidance.
*The content in this section is provided by or adapted from EMC Publishing.
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