This text's reputation for an impeccable research base and current, relevant references is complemented in this new edition by an easy narrative style that grabs student interest and attention and an increased coverage of practical classroom practice issues and depiction of the personal, human side of learning disabilities. The text helps future teachers access the latest research and theory in an easily understood way, so the "big picture" is clear and they can confidently apply these concepts in their daily clinical teaching decisions. With more than 60 real-life vignettes, numerous LD simulations, and extensive illustrations of student work, the Fifth Edition helps future teachers understand the progression of learning, development, and social skills in the average student, how and why the patterns of the learning disabled differ, and why not all methods work for all children. Sensitized to family and school learning expectations and interaction patterns that can promote learning, future teachers learn how to match their interventions to each student's unique strength and weakness patterns in a way that is culturally affirming, takes advantage of instructional methods and technology that work, and promotes the skill set and social-emotional adjustment that will facilitate a student's transition to adult life.