Traces the history of reading instruction in the United States, discussing books about teaching reading which exerted great influence in their respective eras. Discusses the "First-Grade Studies" (begun in 1964), a cooperative effort to analyze study results on teaching reading. (PA)

Reviews the "First-Grade Studies." Finds the studies represent a particular ideological and power relationship within the academy; cooperative research efforts can be a powerful force in shaping understanding of reading research and instruction; there is no best way to teach beginning reading; race, class, and language are important variables in…

Delineates three distinct but overlapping functions of kindergarten: (1) to minister to the nature and needs of four- to six-year-olds; (2) to look forward to the nature and needs of children as they develop through the sixth year; and (3) to look backward to experiences and learning in the home. (NH)