[Fatin] http://www.eduplace.com/rdg/res/literacy/lit_ins4.html

According to the website, there are many different strategies in which research has shown to be effective in literature-based instruction. These include scaffolding of instruction, modeling, cooperative learning, student choices, self-initiated reading and writing, using different modes of reading, activation of prior knowledge, and student responses to literature. 

I will be highlighting first three strategies, namely scaffolding of instruction, modeling and cooperative learning.

Scaffolding of Instruction

Scaffolded instruction is a concept that has grown out of research on how individuals learn. This concept is based on the idea that at the beginning of learning, students need a great deal of support; gradually, this support is taken away to allow students to try their independence. This is referred to as the gradual release of responsibility in the website. If students are unable to achieve independence, the teacher brings back the support system to help students experience success until they are able to achieve independence. 

The concept of support in scaffolded instruction is much broader than the modeling and teaching of strategies and skills; this is only one part of the scaffolding process. Providing support takes place in a number of ways - the way in which the selections are organized in a theme, the amount of prior knowledge activation that is provided, the way in which the literature is read by the students, and the types of responses students are encouraged to make. 

I think through this form of instruction, teaching literature can be done in a more organized manner that is clear and concise to the students. With scaffolding, it provides some form of structure as a guide, allowing students to make better responses.\

Modeling

Modeling has been shown to be a vital part of helping students learn the process of constructing meaning and of helping them learn the various strategies and skills involved in this process. Modeling takes place first through the literature itself and the way it is organized in thematic units. Modeling of specific strategies and skills is also provided by the teacher for those students who need it. This is done by using literature that has been read as models to show the use of strategies and skills. These lessons are known as mini-lessons and they may be formal or informal. Modeling by the teacher is also done through reading aloud, through demonstrating response activities and discussions, and through shared writing. Students also provide modeling for each other through cooperative learning. 

Using a model as a point of reference can be pretty useful, especially in clearing doubts and getting started on something that is new and unfamiliar. Modeling provides examples students can depend on, in further guiding them through analyzing literature texts. This might build their confidence in participating in lessons, and they know what to expect. 

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning is also a very effective instructional strategy that works well in literature-based instruction. Students learn to read, write, and think by having meaningful engagements with more experienced individuals. Many times these individuals may be their peers.

One way of sharing and getting information from one another, and constructing better analysis by building up opinions, other than prior knowledge. This encourages participation, and provides a platform for students to share ideas and learn effectively. It is always good to hear different views/perspective from different angle. Two heads are better than one?

http://www.eduplace.com/rdg/res/literacy/lit_ins4.html