Listed are the 12 criteria for a good high interest, low vocabulary book, which is a stepping stone between the picture book and the juvenile novel. The author believes there will continue to be dramatic improvements in good literature for problem readers. (KC)

Argues that the nature and the readability of instructional materials may be an unsuspected barrier to progress for adult illiterates who receive instruction from volunteer literacy organizations. Considers the reading series of several national organizations. (CH)

An author of books for reluctant adolescent readers discusses his style of writing and explores some of the issues--personal, sociological, and political--raised by the aspirations of teachers for more and better reading. (HOD)

Assesses the qualities and drawbacks of high-interest easy reading books and lists the best of these books that are currently available. (SRT)

Advocates teaching remedial reading in the context of the liberal arts. Identifies problems with developmental reading texts. Recommends the use of remedial reading materials that address socially and culturally significant topics appropriate for college-level study. Offers a sample lesson sequence illustrating the simultaneous acquisition of…

Offers a critique of existing methods of assessing the human interest of basic writing textbooks, contending that most are abstract and subjective and that the more objective Flesch formula inflates texts' human-interest level. Advocates modifying existing formulas and guidelines. Suggests criteria (e.g., appropriateness of readability level) for…

The reading workshop approach provided the method for creating a literate environment in an adult basic education classroom. The students were able to experience the principles of time, ownership, and response. Story maps were used to introduce the basic elements of a fictional story. Character webs were introduced to help students think of words…

Provides a personal account of tutoring an illiterate community college student athlete. Discusses the problem of finding appropriate reading materials for adults with low skill levels. Traces the tutored student's progress, problems, and decisions for future education. (DMM)

This pamphlet describes literacy programs currently in effect in Scandinavian countries and provides guidelines for the development of similar programs. Reasons for functional illiteracy in the industrialized world are discussed, and current and potential roles for public libraries in improving the situation are considered. Persons who are…

Focuses on federal efforts to fight illiteracy through library programs. Projects supported by two programs are described: the Library Services and Construction Act Title I Library Services Program, and the Library Research and Demonstration Program. Current federal library literacy activities are examined and ideas for the future are discussed.…

Discusses why social studies is suitable for multilevel textbook programs, and important features of viable multilevel textbook programs are examined. A sample unit of study for a high school U.S. history course using multilevel texts is provided. A list of easy-reading secondary grade social studies materials is also included. (RM)

Discusses the need for adult literacy programs and ways in which public libraries may commit their resources to fighting illiteracy. Increased use of library technicians to act as liaison between students, tutors, and the library is advocated as a means of personalizing and enhancing programs. (CLB)

Describes an unsuccessful attempt at teaching a well-motivated adult non-reader to read. Details different approaches that were tried, such as the sight method, auditory methods, tactile methods. Suggests ways to avoid reading failure in adults, such as checking for disabilities, and getting to know the student. (SKC)