In this critique of current reading research and practice, the author contends that the extreme ambiguity of English spelling-sound correspondence has confined reading science to an insular, Anglocentric research agenda addressing theoretical and applied issues with limited relevance for a universal science of reading. The unique problems posed by…

Contrary to the claims of members of the National Reading Panel, there is strong evidence supporting the practice of in-school free reading. Many studies show "no difference" between in-school free reading and traditional instruction, but there are very few negative studies, and many positive studies. (The author's scorecard has 24 positive and…

Proposes, as a follow-up to a previous article about applying a phonological reading model to technical communication, that educators and practitioners of technical communication would benefit from a thorough understanding of the speech instinct. Explores the speech instinct, how humans developed it, and how it has been and still is fostered by…

Traces the rationale for removing Sustained Silent Reading from reading instruction as implied by the Reading First initiative. Suggests that no one is accepting responsibility. Notes the authors are apparently out of step with their teaching because they recommend and use many practices that have not been validated by studies conducted by the…

Argues for the acceptance of subvocalization while reading. (FL)

The article questions the increased use of highly structured instructional reading programs for hearing impaired students and suggests there is also a need for holistic approaches, such as the Adaptation of a Sustained Silent Reading approach to develop student skills and interests. (Author/DB)

Presents a model of the constructs underlying silent reading comprehension. Defines the process as consisting of three whole-parts, each of which is a part of silent reading comprehension, yet is also a whole ability that itself consists of two or more parts. Presents a system of reading diagnosis in which construct-valid measures are administered…

Suggests that upper elementary teachers should watch for signs that readers are going through a transition stage from oral to silent reading. Notes that if students do not make the transition with their peers, they may need sustained one-on-one help, especially to improve their attitude and control their inner critic. Presents a case study. (RS)

The FRI and GORT tests are reviewed with attention to test rationales and purposes, test development, test administration, and making the purchase choice. Concludes that the FRI is the preferable test. (JK)

Suggests that readers participate in literary texts by creating and perceiving voices in the work. (HOD)

Concludes that when its guidelines are met, sustained silent reading seems to unite selected positive aspects of both direct and open instruction models into an effective activity. (FL)

Three famous writers--Eudora Welty, Madeleine L'Engle, and Jack London--used their silent reading experiences to survive not only their childhoods, but also to become adult chroniclers of human lives. Pulitzer-prize winning author Eudora Welty credits an extended period of silent reading when she was 7 years old (and home from school for nearly a…

Recommends using the technique of uninterrupted sustained silent reading to improve student attitudes toward reading. (AEA)

Each clearly differentiated program of reading instruction is based on a selected psychological school of thought. Rather than emphasizing one traditional plan of teaching, the teacher needs to study and analyze the student's curricular achievement to see what fits into the learner's repertoire of skills and knowledge. The materials and methods of…

This paper outlines various approaches to teaching reading. The first approach considered focuses on a teacher strictly following a textbook. The paper notes that textbooks which employ programmed reading help students progress at a slow but steady rate. It then discusses the hierarchical method of state mandated objectives and testing. Features…