This presentation summarizes the presenter's learning from a study of beginning reading instruction at Walden University. The presenter learned to assess students' cognitive and non-cognitive reading skills. They gained insight into using different text types, including informational texts, to develop students' comprehension and vocabulary. The presenter applied strategies for developing metacognition and strategic processing, such as teaching synonyms. They also learned to use critical and response perspectives to have students analyze characters and respond to texts. The goal is to support students' literacy development through meaningful assessment and selection of engaging, informative texts.