This paper examines some of the problems associated with unquestioned teaching practices and theories ("sacred cows") in the field of reading. Topics discussed include phonics, pronunciation, oral reading, teacher accountability and behavioral objectives, individualized reading, and the open classroom. (KS)

Information from more than 180 research studies reported during the last decade is presented on (1) secondary school reading achievement, (2) status factors related to growth in reading, (3) progress of reading instruction, (4) instructional procedures, (5) student reading interests, and (6) secondary reading personnel preparation. The research…