The controlled vocabulary method of reading instruction (popular in the 1950's and 60's in the Dick and Jane basic reading series) had many inherent and numerous strong points. As with all beginning reading instruction methods, including the Big Book, heterogeneous reading group, holism, phonics, library book, and constructivist methods, controlled vocabulary involved controls, in the form of special vocabulary. The method also had many advantages: high word recognition, new vocabulary development, advancement of speaking vocabulary, supplementation by library books, and homogeneous reading groups. The emphasis was on success and achievement in reading skills. The controlled vocabulary philosophy may return in some form, in the manner that all reading methods cycle into and out of favor. (EF)