Human beings are hardwired to think in pictures. Evidence dates back to our earliest recorded history. Pictures also offer a universal language for English learners and others who struggle with written language. At the heart of this innovative approach to literacy learning: treat words and pictures as parallel, complementary, and equal languages for learning. This dynamic multimodal approach to teaching writing and strengthening reading has a three-decade history of success with at-risk learners. Visit several elementary classrooms via lively video. Observe students at work; listen to their reflections; view the outstanding content-based picture books they create aligned with the English Language Arts Standards. Experience for yourself the power of this approach to deepen thinking, foster vocabulary development, and teach the magic of word choice. Witness how words can make a picture come alive! This session will inspire a renewed sense of promise and opportunity for all students.