Welcome

We’ve all met an info kid: a child who falls in love with a specific topic like dinosaurs or a certain sport or butterflies. These children absorb all types of texts to learn more about their obsession, and can often quote facts and figures like an encyclopedia. Well, Molly’s questions spread beyond just one topic, but she is always looking for answers. And she seems to always answer her own questions by using informational text.

We know that Infusing informational text in the early grades not only gives young children a jump-start on learning content knowledge but also engages them in reading and writing that establishes a firm foundation for their future literacy development. In this first episode of our virtual professional learning series, “Teaching with Molly of Denali” we’ll hear from the country’s leading expert on informational text, and the show’s instructional advisor, Nell Duke. She’ll lead participants through their own journey of understanding, and will provide important guidance around helping children determine the right questions to ask that will lead them to the information they seek.

The episode, hosted by PBS Digital Innovator All-Stars Elisabeth Bostwick, Heather Gauck, Paige Somoza and Larissa Wright-Elson will focus curiosity: how can we engage our students to ask the right ‘why’ and ‘how’ questions after they have read or listened to informational text? How do these skills inspire further learning and a desire to know more information? Come along with us, and Molly, as we explore and learn how to find out answers to our questions about the world around us.