Research has documented the large differences in young children's vocabulary knowledge. In light of the strong relationship between vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension, this gap is particularly worrisome and points to the critical need for well-articulated vocabulary instruction across the grades. The author describes character trait…

Uses the case study reported in "GYNS AT WRK" to illustrate the five stages of development that children go through in learning to spell. Explains what is involved in each stage and what a teacher can do to help. (FL)

Discusses how the reading profession is changing and needs to continue to change with respect to the complexity of learning; teachers taking responsibility for shaping the context in which they work; and the awareness of differences in theories presented by reading professionals. (MG)

Children arrive in classrooms with varied background knowledge, which means that teachers must select instructional methods, materials, and techniques to meet multiple needs. A carefully planned approach that includes direct and explicit instruction--as well as extensive opportunities for reading, writing, speaking, and listening--can help…

This article describes a community science night as a professional development experience for teachers in a rural school in the southeastern United States. As participants circulated through eight astronomy activities, they engaged in reading images, reading writing, and reading their natural and physical world. Through such diverse textual…

Integrating comprehension and vocabulary instruction in read-alouds can help teachers make the very most of class time. The curriculum described illustrates how read-alouds, when implemented with strategic purpose, can boost learners' vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension. Specifically, the author presents guidelines for: (1) selecting…

Reports a study indicating that an informal program of training in visual perception was equivalent to a formal program both in producing better results on a visual perception measure and on a reading achievement test. (TO)

Presents a review of approved states' proposed Reading First implementation plans. Notes the International Reading Association had three major areas of concern relating to the application process: selection of curriculum materials, selection of assessments, and determination of eligible professional development providers. Finds that interviews…

The inaugural column in the "Content Literacy" department discusses the importance of teachers' assisting students in grades 4-6 to develop content literacy skills. The discussion centers on levels of literacy and diversity issues facing teachers and then identifies three fundamental elements that should be a part of every teacher's content…

The development of cognitive processes is essential to the development of reading comprehension skills. (MKM)

Discusses four issues raised by the movement toward publicly funded prekindergartens and offers five recommendations suggesting specific actions reading teachers can take to influence the design of prekindergarten programs. (JC)

The current accountability movement has focused on academic achievement but has circumvented issues of motivation and authentic reading materials. Many educators have challenged this direction of the reading curriculum, particularly criticizing the narrowing of the curriculum, the continued focus of teaching to the tests, the overemphasis on…

Questions the exclusive use of escapist fiction in basic reading for primary school children and stresses the development of critical reading skills through nonfiction reading material. (RW)