The intent of this publication is to provide an opportunity for educators to consider reading comprehension as dependent, at least in part, on specific features of written language. Chapter 1 discusses a theoretical framework for thinking, problem solving, and reading comprehension. Chapter 2 deals with teaching word-level comprehension,…

A middle school English teacher who frequently observes student teachers notes some of the basic truths of the classroom usually encountered by new instructors. Discusses ways that teacher deportment affects student attitude, the importance of teaching by example, the value of reading aloud, and more. (JG)

Discusses the limitations of immersion programs for minority-language children and examines submersion, transitional bilingual education, and reverse immersion approaches according to three criteria: theoretical consistency, fairness to children, and empirical support. Reverse immersion in which children acquire literacy skills in their native…

Reviews research on the cognitive and affective processes engaged in by learners as they read which determine reading effectiveness and addresses implications of findings for college level study skills instruction, particularly remedial instruction of distance learners. Suggested features of a study skills program, its presentation, and program…

Considers demands on the reader of printed material displayed on the video screen. Ways that electronic media can engender and foster reading skills are discussed, including use of graphics in video displays and ways educationalists may contribute to development of videotext and software to teach reading. (40 references) (MBR)

Addresses attitudes toward reading resulting in beginning reading instruction in the kindergarten and preschool curriculum. Argues that previously accepted notions of the necessity of reading readiness are no longer viable and encourages home and classroom support for the acquisition of reading abilities through written and oral language. (DST)

Emphasizes understanding the social psychology of individual and community resistance to schooling in classes of adult students in job training programs. Points out that basic unit of educational organization should be the group of teachers, that classes should be organized as work groups which should share the tasks of education and everyday…

Notes that research supports the idea that children are confused about concepts related to beginning reading instruction. Reports on assessment instruments that are commercially available or can be devised by teachers. (FL)

At risk students need to experience a reading curriculum which offers success in learning to read; appropriate sequence of reading activities; feedback regarding what has been accomplished in reading; rewards for doing well when comparing past with present achievement records; intrinsic motivation in wanting to read; help and guidance to achieve…

About 38 percent of all fourth-graders have reading skills below the basic level and thus cannot read well enough to complete grade level assignments. Research clearly demonstrates that most reading failure is preventable and most high-risk students can improve their reading and writing achievement with expert instruction. Research also indicates…

Efforts to improve public education should include better teacher salaries, teacher recertification, merging of schools and departments of education, viewing teachers as professionals, increased private sector support, greater commitment of resources by colleges and universities, use of retired professionals, and changes in English and Social…

The author responds to alarm over declining national test scores by outlining possible improvements for educational practice and policy. (LH)

A mother of an adolescent daughter with blindness and learning disabilities focuses on how she helped her daughter improve reading and writing skills by finding a meaningful purpose for those skills in daily life. This article discusses early signs of learning problems, the learning environment, talking books, books in braille, technology,…

Describes an experimental program of interactive assessment and instruction called GUIDES to Learning and Instruction, which is designed for use in college level remedial and developmental programs in writing, reading, and study skills. Highlights include microcomputer administration of measurement; response formats; feedback; validity for…

Examines the problem of children not learning to read well enough for reading to have a positive impact on their lives. It shows that while a large body of research exists on reading instruction, much of this knowledge has not made its way into the classroom. Five points about the reading problem and teaching effectiveness are addressed. (GR)