"Bunko" are local mini-libraries for children in Japan, operated voluntarily by individuals or groups of parents, intended to nurture children's reading interest by offering them an inviting reading environment. In 1993, there were an estimated 4,000 bunko in Japan, with approximately 32,000 adult bunko members (90% female). Bunko…

A study investigated attitudes and preferences concerning reading among fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students in Portuguese-language schools in the United States. Extrinsic factors influencing students (parents, teachers) were also analyzed. The research took place in 10 schools in 5 states. Data were obtained using questionnaires (students)…

A study investigated low-income children's book reading experiences with their mothers and in group reading in preschool when the children were 3 and 4 years old. At the age of 3 years, the primary focus of book readings in both settings was immediate information. Mothers were significantly more likely than teachers to use extending comments, and…

This annotated bibliography of supplementary adult literacy materials was designed to enhance the existing literacy program being offered at the Mississippi State Penitentiary in Parchman, Mississippi. The annotations are arranged in the following 20 categories: automobiles; biography; communication skills; consumer information; coping skills;…

This collection of abstracts is part of a continuing series providing information on recent doctoral dissertations. The 28 titles deal with a variety of topics, including the following: (1) factors affecting third graders' comprehension of descriptive texts; (2) the trope density of selected first, second, and third grade basal readers; (3) a…

Recent research investigating the effects of sexism in elementary school textbooks on readers is reviewed to determine children's responses in terms of reading preferences, sex-role attitudes and behaviors, and comprehension abilities. The degree of sexism in textbooks was determined by the proportion of female main characters, the presentation of…

Results of the Nelson-Denny Reading Test are used as a screening device for selecting students for remedial work in the Reading and Study Skills Center (R-S) at New York Community College (NYCC). A descriptive analysis of the fall 1967 day session freshmen showed that the average freshman at NYCC was reading at the 12.6 grade level, or .4 grade…

An intensive investigation analyzing and summarizing the scientific research and professional literature on reading interests of secondary school students was undertaken with the ultimate goal of assembling data which could be used to improve teaching and learning in the area of reading. Using an historical approach, considerable attention was…

This guide, one of a series designed to aid social studies teachers, deals with methods for providing for the academically talented. After pointing out the problems of identification, basic principles for special to regular class programs are discussed. Suggested activities and methods for the social studies cover the areas of reading, creative…

Provides a useful introduction and overview to using storytelling in the elementary social studies classroom. Presents a rationale for using storytelling, tips on getting started, preparation for the story, and follow-up activities. Includes a 61-item bibliography of folktales and stories. (MJP)

Presents seven reading activities involving the preschool classroom writing environment, using big books and predictable books, using cereal boxes to foster emergent literacy, using editorials, visual-auditory links, reading outside the classroom, and ownership of writing. (MG)

This manual reflects the experiences of participants in the Partnership for Family Reading a collaborative project between Montclair State College (New Jersey) and a group of Newark, New Jersey public schools, and is designed to serve as a guide to those who wish to start Family Reading Projects. In 1988, the Partnership for Family Reading began…

English instruction is successful when students learn to express significant ideas clearly in discussions, write with verve and grace, read with insight and enjoyment, and practice these skills beyond the realm of the classroom. This report discusses how to teach grammar and select literature in order to achieve those goals. Research and issues in…

A preliminary study investigated whether regular periods of sustained silent reading (SSR) would positively affect verified silent reading comprehension scores for eighth grade students. The hypothesis tested was that students allowed 15 minutes of recreational reading (reading self selected material for enjoyment) five times a week for three…

Articles in this journal issue focus on reading acquisition and instruction. The titles and authors are as follows: (1) "10 Good Ways to Involve Parents in the Reading Program," by Nickolas Criscuolo; (2) "A Parent Guide for Helping the Child with A Reading Disability," by Frederick Duffelmeyer and Dale Baum; (3)…