Why Book Punch?

• Reading and writing are reciprocal skills
• Research shows Merit improves writing skills and reading comprehension
• Instructional materials should enhance existing content
• Educational technology must be easy-to-use

Book Punch is a groundbreaking use of educational technology based on research at Marshall University and developed by Merit's team of reading and curriculum design specialists.

The heart of Book Punch is a powerful engine that scaffolds the writing and reasoning processes. This enables students to connect to books more personally and think critically about what they have read.

Book Punch is derived from Merit’s popular Paragraph Punch and Essay Punch products, which have received numerous awards and accolades for excellence in teaching students to write effectively.

Marshall University researchers have shown that students using Merit, including the Punch programs, show improvements in reading and writing skills.

The work of leading contemporary educators has also influenced Book Punch. Theories of Keene & Zimmerman, Fountas & Pinnell, Langer, and Graham are incorporated into the program. A detailed research-basis for Book Punch is included in the program manual.

Book Punch is flexible. It may be used individually, in small groups, or in a classroom setting -- as an enrichment activity or as a supplement to writing instruction. Plus, it complements state and local curriculum standards for reading and writing.

Online professional development is available, but not required to use Book Punch.

To try Book Punch, contact us and we will set up a demo account for you.