Differentiated Literacy Instruction in Grades 6-8: Strategies and Resources

Sharon Walpole, PhD, is Professor in the School of Education at the University of Delaware, where she is former Director of the Professional Development Center for Educators. Her research and numerous publications focus on literacy coaching, professional learning for teachers, designing flexible interventions for students who struggle, and the effects of evidence-based curricula. Dr. Walpole is a recipient of the Early Career Achievement Award from the National Reading Conference, the Excellence in Teaching Award from the University of Delaware, the Jerry Johns Outstanding Teacher Educator in Reading Award from the International Literacy Association, and the P. David Pearson Scholarly Influence Award from the Literacy Research Association.

Sara Merkle, EdD, is a School Success Specialist at the University of Delaware's School Success Center and teaches courses in the College of Education and Human Development. Her interests include adolescent literacy instruction and achievement, curriculum development, influencing relationships between leaders and teachers, education equity, and advocacy for teachers and students. Dr. Merkle believes that education is a form of social justice, and she amplifies the voices and experiences of literacy educators in her instructional coaching and partners with them to drive practice and achievement. She is a person who stutters, a characteristic that has complicated and enhanced her life.

Aleta Thompson, MA, has been an educator for 50 years as a teacher, literacy and instructional coach, and curriculum writer. She taught high school English, including theatre, journalism, and Advanced Placement Literature, for 28 years, and has been a literacy coach for 22 years, most recently working with K-12 and preservice teachers across the mid-Atlantic area for the University of Delaware's Professional Development Center for Educators. Ms. Thompson has worked with local theatres as a director, actor, and stage manager, and studied Shakespeare in England with the National Endowment for Humanities and the English-Speaking Union.