This bulletin presents four papers on how to control, manipulate, and predict the readability of printed materials. The first paper describes trends in readability brought about by research tools developed by psychologists and linguists. The second paper explores the effects of word frequency in printed materials on comprehension and concludes…

Two related experiments were designed to investigate the reinforcement potency of children's reading materials. After determining the preferences of third graders for various reading materials, listening to recorded tapes of these materials was used as a reward for correct responses on reading exercises. Significant differences among materials…

A shortage of materials with wide appeal that are suited to the needs of immigrant learners of English as a second language exists. Language teachers are best equipped not only to select, but also to author such materials. (Author/CH)

Examines some national surveys that are in the ERIC data base that provide information about the reading habits and preferences of American readers. (HOD)

Reviews studies dealing with dyslexia, reading development, and reading materials and interests. (DF)

Trends in foreign children's books observed at International Bologna Book Fair (1984/85) indicate that publishers in Europe (The Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, England, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Yugoslavia) and Japan sell most children's books to general public and respond more directly to readers' interests…

Explains how to design reading cards using material relevant to the interests of the children being taught. (TO)

A supplementary reading materials collection in the classroom can stimulate a child's reading interest. (MM)

In order to serve students it is helpful for the library to know the characteristics and reading habits of students. (4 references) (Author/DH)

First graders have demonstrated and identified preferred content in primary reading textbooks in response to single pairs of stories of five content factors." Statistical tables and extensive secondary literature included. (Author/SP)

Concludes that branched stories, which involve the reader actively in a story, can produce better attitudes toward reading on the part of elementary school students than stories from basal readers. (FL)

Discusses selected books that had an influence on the author's childhood and career. (JT)

Describes how paperback books can be used to motivate children to read and to appreciate literature. Provides a suggested booklist. (MKM)

Discusses the latest research findings and includes teaching strategies successful with aged readers. Exploration of appropriate reading materials and teaching strategies needs to be performed. Educational needs and interests of the elderly need to be identified so that reading programs offered actually are attended. (Author)

Discusses factors involved in motivating middle school students to read books that interest them to build a positive attitude toward reading. (MG)