The history of reading is a fast growing and controversial area of the emerging field of book history. Methods for researching the evolution and patterns of literacy and of reading habits are not yet established, and knowledge of information sources is still limited. (MSE)

Confirms that students' general reading attitudes and their frequency of voluntary reading declined during sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade years. Finds a statistically significant positive relationship between students' reading attitudes and their reading behaviors. Finds no significant differences for either gender or ethnicity. (RS)

Discusses how a fifth-grade teacher gained a new perspective on the reading habits of a reluctant male reader identified as having a specific learning disability in language. Notes that the student became enchanted with nonfiction, forcing the teacher to reevaluate her value system that placed reading, writing, and speaking above all other forms…

The history of series books is traced from their appearance during the Civil War to the present time, along with published comments from librarians about the suitability of these stories for children. A recent sampling of opinion from youngsters about their interest in series books is compared with some responses from librarians. (AEF)

Explores the participation in reading-writing workshops of students who consider reading to be an important part of their lives. Finds students who are engaged readers of fiction bring a set of expectations that differ from their teachers' and from students who do not read regularly for pleasure. (NH)

Presents tips for giving successful teen booktalks, including advice on delivery, teasing students and getting their attention, selecting books that have sections that will interest them, stretching the truth, and, and limiting the presentation. Includes a sampling of young adult books and examples of scripts used to get teens' attention. (AEF)

Notes that humor and hope can produce an interest in reading and writing in children. Presents ideas for developing interest in language arts as well as suggested poems, picture books, and beginning chapter books. Also includes classroom suggestions for developing the four needs of beginning writers: ideas, words, structures, and spelling. (LBT)

Stemming from the 1992 Integrated Reading Performance Record (IRPR), a study investigated the reading habits and practices and the classroom activities related to reading of a subgroup of students participating in the 1992 reading assessment conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Subjects, 1,136 fourth graders, were…

This monograph was developed to provide elementary classroom teachers with suggestions for diagnosing several aspects of children's reading abilities and attitudes. The techniques described adhere to diagnostic guidelines set forth in the first part of the monograph and should be useful in regular classroom situations. The remainder of the…

To investigate the effects on students' reading attitudes and interests of sustained silent reading as opposed to reading aloud, a study divided 50 urban third graders into two groups, with 25 in each group. One group of students engaged in an 8-week period of sustained silent reading which was teacher directed before and after the reading…

This book is a collection of commentaries by Nebraskans about books that have been memorable for them from childhood through adulthood. The book is a record of life-long learning dedicated to Nebraska's youngest readers in the Year of the Young Reader, 1989--a common ground for intergenerational dialogue made possible by the world of books. The…

Noting that what becomes of reluctant readers should be of great concern to a nation that advocates education and has traditionally been committed to principles of the higher order, this paper identifies the characteristics of reluctant or unmotivated readers and discusses what happens to them. Following background reflection on the limits people…

This guide is designed to provide a variety of tools and techniques for planning: tools such as assessment instruments, teaching materials, record and report forms; techniques such as teaching methods for the various reading program objectives; organizational plans for the effective management of students and facilities; and evaluation strategies…

Although there is a paucity of research-based information about the literacy of the aged, educators, researchers, and authors continue to propose certain practices and advocate certain positions, often while operating under unconscious or unexamined biases against the elderly. What research has been done indicates that literacy instruction that…

Suggests that teachers may help students who are reluctant to read by ascertaining the interests of the students and using reading material and writing assignments which fit those interests. Includes some ideas for finding real interests of students. (TJ)