Houghton Mifflin Co. News Release - July 30, 2009

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Announces Transitions Series for Adult Learners

The first-of-its-kind gateway series delivers essential writing and mathematics instruction to adult learners preparing for post-secondary education

BOSTON — July 30, 2009 — Steck-Vaughn, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company and the exclusive distributor of theOfficial GED_®Practice Tests, today announced the release of Transitions, a two-book college preparation series for adult learners. This first-of-its-kind gateway series is tailored to high school graduates and GED_®-credentialed students who require additional skills to succeed in post-secondary education programs. The series' approachability and relevant content engage learners and help develop the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in higher education and the workplace.

The series' two books, Preparing for College Writing and Preparing for College Mathematics, each includes five self-directed units for students to complete throughout a single semester. The books' key skills align with those of ACCUPLACER^®/WritePlacer^® and Compass^® tests, offering exceptional value over traditional college textbooks.

"Entering today's job market with a college diploma is extremely important," said Mike Lavelle, K–12 president, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. "We are proud to offer an unprecedented series whose economy and accessibility enable adult learners to master the skills that will propel their academic and professional careers."

Transitions: Preparing for College Writing by Carol Jago, president-elect of the National Council of Teachers of English, familiarizes students with the five most common types of college-level writing: persuasive, expository, reflective, literary analysis and response to a prompt. Preparing for College Writing adopts a gradual-release model that guides students through instruction, modeling and practice, ultimately preparing them for independent writing. By seamlessly weaving writing, grammar and mechanics instruction into each writing process step, Preparing for College Writing allows students to master skills within the context of their original work. Additionally, sample student essays, writing tips and frequent opportunities for self-assessment help develop key skills and strengthen academic confidence.

Transitions: Preparing for College Mathematics by Dr. Paul Kennedy, Professor, Department of Mathematics at Colorado State University, addresses basic and intermediate algebra concepts through a multiple-representation approach that utilizes numeric, graphic, verbal and symbolic representations. Each unit guides students through algebraic fundamentals, target skills and advancing-algebra concepts, including essential functions, equations and inequalities. Unit activities incorporate real-world content specifically targeted to adult learners, and lessons include sidebar notes with mental math hints, problem-solving strategies and calculator tips. Like Preparing for College Writing, Preparing for College Mathematics offers frequent assessments that help identify potential concept gaps before students move on to more advanced material, increasing students' academic achievement and confidence.

For more information about the Transitions series, visit www.steckvaughnadult.hmhco.com.

About Steck-Vaughn
Steck-Vaughn, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, is the leader in adult education and GED preparation materials. Steck-Vaughn’s broad product portfolio includes Pre-GED and GED preparation, adult basic education, life skills, ESL products, transition to post-secondary titles, and materials designed for workforce readiness. For additional information and to learn more about Steck-Vaughn adult education products, visit www.steckvaughn.com/adulted.

About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company is a global education leader and the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K–12 schools. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of best-in-class educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards-based assessments for students and educators. The Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning literature for adults and young readers. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. To learn more about Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, visit www.hmhpub.com.