ABSTRACT
The research on texts and teaching reading, summarized in this volume, provides a rich perspective for educators to examine effective teaching practices. In this chapter, we present a tool and a process for educators to use in the study of the classroom literacy environment. The tool, the TEX-IN3 (TEXt Inventory, TEXts In-use, & TEXt Interviews), is designed to capture the qualities, uses, and understandings of the literacy environment of a classroom. The process is one that encourages individual, collegial, and critical reflections on current literacy instruction practices. We begin by offering a theoretical framework for the study of the classroom literacy environment as a basis for critical reflection and change. Next, we present a detailed description of the components of the TEX-IN3. Finally, we offer specific recommendations on procedures for the use of the instrument to assess the classroom literacy environment.
