Describes the four aspects of the Reading Recovery program: (1) the teaching of children; (2) the training of teachers; (3) the training of teacher leaders; and (4) implementing the program in an education system and coordinating the long-term prevention strategy. Notes that a critical factor in the program is the training of teachers. (RS)

Accountability based on reading scores will only demoralize teachers who are trying hard in disadvantaged schools. A better response to reading failure would include improved teacher training and placement, ability grouping, reduced class size, adequate specialist support, and kindergarten reading. PS 209 in Queens utilizes several of these…

One way of countering illiteracy is to teach children to read before they enter elementary school, e.g., in nursery school or at home. The "right age" for learning to read is discussed; positive results of a project in France that taught nursery school children to read and write are examined. (RM)