Outlines empirical studies of the effects of "book floods" on elementary school students' acquisition of a second language, indicating that exposure to an extensive range of high-interest illustrated story books encourages children to read and learn the target language more quickly, as well as develop positive attitudes toward books. (38…

This case study of a struggling reader suggests that learning to read is not necessarily about using the right program, but rather about making the right connection. This case describes how Ashley, a child with special needs, came to literacy in her own way in the company of Barbara Park's fictional character, Junie B. Jones, a girl about her age…

An important research paradigm applied to the study of adolescent resistance to reading--listening to student voice--has yielded rich information regarding adolescent literacy practices, adolescent agency, and adolescent identity as components of resistance to reading. Instructional perspectives of teachers and researchers also serve to shed light…

A teacher educator incorporates active involvement of students and choice in two different college classrooms. The first class was an undergraduate reading/literacy education class. Students were offered the choice of the RAP (Reading Addiction Process) option or taking the final exam. Students read materials of their own choice on a daily basis.…

This yearbook includes a summary of the research in reading that has been conducted in recent years, and also contains many ideas that have practical implications for the teacher in the classroom. The essays are divided into six major sections: research review, college and adult programs, teacher education, programs and practices, test materials,…

The 14 articles in this theme issue are divided into five categories: Youth and Literature--Issues and Opportunities; Portrayals of Children and Youth in Literature; Youth and Their Parents in Literature; Death and Bereavement in Young People's Literature; and Epilogue. The final section focuses on Literature and Youth Development--Implications…

Five elementary school teachers offer ideas for encouraging skillful reading and appreciation of books in young students. Suggested strategies include: (1) holding book auctions; (2) choosing books geared toward children's interests; (3) individualizing the reading program; and (4) making oversize books for kindergarten. (PP)

Describes the origin and evolution of a course to meet the needs of gifted independent readers. (JL)

Describes a program in which comic books were placed in a junior high school library in order to attract more students. Concludes that the comic books proved to be an aid in helping teachers attain their educational goals. (FL)

Describes a reading program focusing on Newbery Medal and Honor Books developed by a library/media specialist and a sixth-grade reading teacher. Evolution of the group format into an individualized approach is discussed, as well as such positive outcomes of the program as increased enjoyment of reading by students. (BK)

Describes the grant-supported Read, Enjoy and Do (R.E.A.D.) program of the Park Forest (Illinois) Public Library intended to provide materials to help parents/caregivers make reading an enjoyable learning experience for children. Highlights the program's accomplishments, strengths, and weaknesses. Analyzes changed or altered grant needs and…

Offers a list of more than 50 books, in picture book and board book format, that are best suited to the developmental needs and interests of infants and preschool children. Books are listed under the following headings: identification of objects, rhythm and rhyme, pattern and repetition, and contrast and opposition. (AEF)

Boys and girls have different needs. Trying to teach them equally instead of equitably is doing disservice to both. When children reach middle school, the issue of gender becomes a huge concern for both genders as they get conflicting messages about their role requirements from society. As such, middle school teachers must accept the differences…

The serialized reference work "Biography Today" is initiating a "Subject Series" that in five separate volumes will encompass: authors, artists, scientists, and inventors, sports figures, and world leaders. This is the first volume in the "Author Series." There will be no duplication between the regular series and the special subject volumes. This…

A library project designed to increase the independent reading of deaf children involved the initiation of a bookmobile program in the dormitories of a school for the deaf and the adaptation and creation of books that deaf children could use independently. Because it is difficult for deaf persons to grasp abstract concepts in print, high-interest…