Reviews the five criteria with which to evaluate instructional materials (content validity, transfer potential, amount of reinforcement, quality of directions and instructional language, and adaptability/flexibility). Presents content bias as the last criterion. Reviews four resources for developing reference and study skills. (MG)

Discusses the selection criteria of reinforcement in phonics materials. Reports on a search for phonics materials which met the criteria of having an appropriate amount of reinforcement, high transfer potential, and high content validity. Finds that "Signals Video Learning Series" is a satisfactory phonics program. (MG)

Offers a five-point checklist that educators might use to determine the content validity of materials labeled whole language. Recommends "The Whole Language Sourcebook" and the "Story Box" program as high content validity materials. (MG)

Uses the examination of materials designed to teach critical reading to review the three criteria discussed in previous Instructional Resources columns: content validity, transfer potential, and amount of reinforcement. (MG)

Concludes that the instrument reviewed is a carefully designed test incorporating a new interpretation of standardization and improved definitions of traditional reading levels. (FL)