Smarter Charts, K-2: Optimizing an Instructional Staple to Create Independent Readers and Writers

"Your charts don't need to be perfect, just thoughtful. You don't even have to be able to draw. Just put the child before the chart." Marjorie Martinelli and Kristine Mraz

Listen to an interview with Marjorie and Kristi, the Chartchums, on Education Talk Radio.

Commercially available charts leave you hanging? Want the secret to jump-off-the-wall charts that stick with kids? Trust Smarter Charts.

Did you ever want to know: What do great charts look like? How many is too many? Where are the best places for them in my classroom? How long do I keep them? How do I know if they are working?

Then you'll want to meet Marjorie Martinelli and Kristine Mraz, the Chartchums. They struggled with the same questions, and Smarter Charts shares not only the answers, but the best practices they've discovered as well. Amp up the power of your charts with tips on design and language, instructional use, and self-assessment. Even better, discover surprising strategies that deepen engagement, strengthen retention, and heighten independence-all by involving students in chart making.

Packed with full-color sample charts from real classrooms, Smarter Charts shares simple, brain-based strategies proven to make your classroom an even more active, effective space for literacy instruction and classroom management.