In this article, the authors propose a revised way of thinking about reading levels, one that promotes a wider and more flexible view of teacher decision making about the use of leveled texts in classrooms. They share five key principles to consider when looking at the use of instruction that involves matching leveled materials with readers.…

Relays the observations of a researcher who visited a "culturally disadvantaged" child in her home. Describes how the child's interest in print was nurtured by her teacher, her mother, and the stories that they read to her. (ARH)

Examines the tensions created when students resist suggestions in writing conferences. Selects four writing conferences with children as the focus for the study. Analyzes the data for interesting points and recurring themes that indicate what typically transpired in a conference. Endeavors to interpret children's responses on some of these…

Searches for some precision in the discourse of whole language with respect to the role of the teacher as expressed in words such as empowerment, control, predictability, and authenticity. Observes and interprets the practice of two successful whole language teachers to refine understandings of these concepts as they are enacted in classrooms. (MG)

Examines how children respond to reading. Develops a program that cultivates the growth of response. Shares how these experiences with oral discussions of literature gave insights into the role of participant/facilitator for language arts teachers. (MG)