TIPS FOR TEACHERS - Free, downloadable issues
Tips for Teachers issues show how to teach fundamental literacy skills and have practical aids that every teacher needs. First the targeted skill is explained; then instructional steps and materials ideas are presented. Best of all, these valuable excerpts from the Reading Manipulatives Sourcebook include directions, patterns, and resources to aid in construction.

Teachers created Reading Manipulatives products, and we would like you to see how interest and skills soar when individualized manipulatives are added to daily instructional routines. Therefore, we are sharing some of our best ideas and hard work with you by offering free web resources that will hopefully give assistance with the mandate to leave no child behind.

Based on scientific principles
Extensive brain research of the past 20 years indicates that skills should be developed holistically because fragmented instruction inhibits learning. Reading Manipulatives products employ structured, repetitive strategies to teach skills and achieve objectives. Students identify patterns and connect concepts with previous experiences. Completeness and continuity lead to mastery.

Data from learning-style research validates the efficacy of hands-on materials. The majority of individuals, regardless of age, learn best when they are actively involved. When one considers the pace and interactive nature of today's world, it stands to reason that individualized, game-like materials would be far more effective. Manipulatives also encourage team learning.

Section organization
Online resources are provided for each skill area listed under Tips for Teachers in the left menu options. These sections first summarize the scope of the skills and scientific findings. Then essential skills within this category are discussed. Instructional steps and materials are given, along with links to Reading Manipulatives products that are related to the skills. At the end of each section, are options for downloading Tips for Teachers issues or other resources.

There is also a summary page that lists all currently available Tips for Teachers. Issues can be downloaded from this page as well.