Uses research data to suggest a new basis for understanding gender differences in girls' and boys' achievements in reading. Argues that raising levels of attainment across the board depends on building an active reading culture in the classroom. Suggests the Literacy Hour and the emphasis on work encompassing word, sentence and text levels for all…

Describes two studies: (1) the effects of instruction on the types of reading strategies used by children when given a book and a set of questions about it, and (2) the progress in ability to use a book made by a group of children between 1973 and 1977. (GT)

A comparison of the effects of educational counseling of parents of backward readers with the effects of specialized remedial help for such readers suggests that an interested, well-informed staff who can enlist the positive cooperation of parents can substantially reduce the problem of reading failure without elaborate specialized provisions. (GT)

Offers suggestions for organizing the primary classroom to provide ideal conditions for teaching reading. (DF)

Examines the use of reading diaries, in which parents of poor readers recorded their child's reading activities at home. Indicates that children made a mean gain in Reading Age Score of 6.3 months after five weeks of using the reading diary approach. Reports positive change in reading attitudes for both parents and children. (MG)