Offering a comprehensive framework for the creation and implementation of one's own authentic and effective ELA curriculum, this book provides new "ways of thinking" for preservice and new teachers to transition from the theory behind curricular design to engaged teaching and learning. Costigan not only provides strategies for preservice teachers to develop their own pedagogies, activities, lessons, and teaching techniques, but also demonstrates how to design tools and teach in the current testing- and standards-driven context of the educational reform movement. Containing real-life examples of reading and writing instruction, this book empowers preservice teachers to translate the concepts of curriculum design to actual ELA classroom practices that will engage students.