By Babs Bell Hajdusiewicz. Carefully prepared lessons use the rhythm and rhyme of poetry to teach phonics. This book"s 115 read-aloud poems—some from well-known children"s authors like Norma Farber, Maurice Sendak, John Ciardi, and Jack Prelutsky, others written specially for this book—immerse children in particular language sounds again and again, in word after word, within an exciting context. Each poem comes with teaching apparatus comprising word lists using the targeted sound, a "focusing talk" to cement and extend students" connection to the poem, and an idea for a hands-on activity. Photocopy masters supply "letter cards" for sounds the book targets. Multiple indexes (by the poem"s first line, by title, by sound, and so on) aid ease of use. Grades preK–1. Illustrated. 8½" x 11". Good Year. ©1999. GDY405.