Effective research-based strategies, model lessons, and support is provided for K-8 teachers in this professional guide which defines purposeful talk, why it is important, and how it increases comprehension to help learners better understand text. With this guide, teachers can empower learners to have purpose-driven discussions in order to develop their thinking skills and enhance comprehension. Talking About Text takes a detailed look at the body of behaviors that enable learners to talk in a constructive manner in order to get the talking started. Model lessons demonstrate how to utilize effective strategies to think and talk about text. Suggestions for working through difficulties with purposeful talk are also included, making this resource especially useful for teachers by providing comfort in the realization that such difficulties are predictable and solvable. 112pp.