This updated edition is packed with practical, hands-on activities that reach students to argue persuasively, research effectively, think critically, and write clearly. The book's platform builds on speaking and debating lessons as a basis for improving critical thinking. Updates include specific connections to the Common Core State Standards, as well as a new section on debate skills and an in-depth discussion about online research and the validity of sources. About the Author: Dr. Bill McBride is an international speaker, educator, former middle and high school teacher and reading specialist, and contributor to the development of a number of textbook series. He is the author of "Building Literacy in Social Studies," "Carrying a Load of Feathers," "Entertaining an Elephant," and "What s Happening?" He is an author-in-residence for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and also trains teachers in content area reading, teaching to gender differences, student engagement, Common Core literacy, using technology in the classroom, and vocabulary development. He lives in San Francisco."