Resources for Literacy

My Publications

Resources for Literacy

Infusing Grammar into the Writing Workshop: A Guide for K-6 Teachers

Children’s ability to demonstrate the commands of Standard English across the four domains of literacy (reading, writing, speaking, listening) is more important than ever; knowing how to do this outside of the traditional “kill-and-drill” approach remains elusive.

In this book, co-written with Amy Benjamin, I offer research-based, socio-linguistic approaches to incorporating highly engaging grammar instruction to support your writing instruction. Go beyond the basic definitions of the parts of speech, deepen your understanding of the importance of linguistic patterning and, most importantly, stay away from the worksheets!

Articles

 

Creating Healthy Relationships with Parents: A Study in Diplomacy, Support, Reflection and Empathy

For this research paper, completed with a grant from the Teachers Network Leadership Institute, I engaged in research around considering conditions I could create in my classroom to create stronger relationships with primary caregivers.

Super Power Your Time Management Skills

Managing time in a writing workshop is not always as easy as it seems. In this article, written for ASCD Express, I help lay out three teacher-tested strategies to keep engagement high, stress low, and instructional time meaningful.

 

Ready To Explore The Possibilites For Your Building?

  • "Thanks, Barb. I’ve learned so much from you. I never knew my little students could do so much. Thank you for opening my mind (and brain) to the possibilities of early literacy!"

    —Cynthia F., Pre-K Teacher

  • "I think so highly of you as a leader, teacher, and a person; I strive to emulate the presence you have with the children and to continue building my own repertoire thanks to the model you have provided. There’s so much to learn, there’s so much to do, and I couldn’t be more thrilled that I’m being given the privilege to do it."

    —Halley M., 4th Grade Teacher

  • "Barb's positive outlook on literacy, teaching, and learning is infectious. She has a unique ability to connect that motivates teachers to challenge themselves for the betterment of their students. Barb has impacted the way I provide professional learning for teachers, and is my inspiration as a literacy coach."

    —Jack A., Literacy Coach

  • "Barb is a source of inspiration for me and helps guide me to think of ways to motivate my teachers for the betterment of the students. She devotes her time and energy into improving student achievement and she is always willing to share her extensive knowledge with staff members. Barb has an innate ability to implement strategies and activities to foster a love of teaching! She challenges me and makes me a better instructional leader and she has been instrumental in transforming my school from one that relied on basal anthologies to one that now fully implements comprehensive literacy and makes instructional decisions based on student needs."

    —Regina M., Principal

  • "Barb Golub is an absolute inspiration! Over the past two years our district has had the privilege to work with Barb as she re-energized our teachers' approach to literacy instruction. Her direction, modeling, and coaching provided teachers just what they needed to get started with utilizing the workshop model. Our sessions included classroom lab time where Barb modeled teaching students in whole group, small group, and 1:1 settings. Teachers also worked with partners to practice their new learning in a safe, supportive environment. Lab site time was equally balanced with time for teachers to talk, process their learning, and ask questions to solidify and clarifying their learning. Above all, Barb empowered teachers to have a growth mindset and to keep students at the center of instruction. Trying new things can be intimating, but Barb’s warm and approachable nature dissolved any worries and allowed teachers to jump into the work with both feet! Thank you for inspiring and empowering teachers…our students thank you!"

    —Kristy J., Academic Specialist for K-5 English Language Arts

  • "Thank you for your work with our staff. My observation was that the training was very successful and you were able to resonate well with our staff, which is not always accepting of staff developers!!!"

    —David S., Superintendent

  • "As a result of your support, feedback, and encouragement I am a better reading teacher. I feel I have gained skills that will stand the test of time! Please know that the value of your work is beyond measure. My students are reading for a sustained period of time and enjoying it. They are eager to replenish their book baggies and parents are telling me their children, who never liked books, are actually excited about reading!!! We've laid the groundwork and set them up for success and they are more engaged readers because of that. I hope you know that you have caused a ripple effect and have not only made me a better teacher, but have contributed, in a very meaningful way, to my students' growth as readers."

    —Kelli D., 1st Grade Teacher

  • As a department chairperson for language arts literacy, I am always in search of professional development that not only provides content information but also feels practical and replicable to teachers. Common hurdles we face are lack of teacher buy-in, poor teacher engagement and follow through, and teachers expressing consultants are not relatable. I have to be honest there is a selfish piece of me who does not want to share this recommendation with you and I am sure our teachers would agree. But in the interest of children, I will share an incredible resource. This gem is named Barb! And if you visit our district and ask any teacher you will probably hear “we want more of Barb!” Not only do the teachers find her valuable, but I do as well. I have been in education for over twenty years and have experience in special and general education as well as being a reading specialist. Barb Golub has taught us all how to understand the intricacies of teaching literacy in an organized, simple and replicable way. I can without hesitation recommend Barb Golub as a literacy consultant!

    —Karen W., Language Arts Chairperson

  • "Three years ago our district adopted a Workshop Model for our Instructional Framework. We were so fortunate to connect with Barb to help us on our journey. The professional development that she has provided for our teachers, administrators and literacy coaches has been instrumental in our transition from being programmed based to being student based. Our elementary staff reports that Barb's work is among the most valued and meaningful support they have received as professionals. The growth in our teachers knowledge, confidence and expertise has been inspirational and game changing for our students."

    —Joanne F., Assistant Superintendent