Provides a chart to be used with the Dale-Chall Readability Formula to simplify computation of readability level. (MKM)

This paper describes the Harris-Jacobson Readability Formula A, a revision of a readability formula based on word lists from "Basic Elementary Reading Vocabularies." Section one of the paper discusses procedures for using the formula, including the selection of samples, scoring the variables, and applying the formula. The next section…

Describes a research study on the impact of readability of an annual report on the stockholders. Results of the study are presented along with implications for business teachers. Also examines the effectiveness of readability formulas. (CT)

Reviews the factors to be considered in evaluating abstracts. Types of abstracts, content, length, writing style, comprehensive criteria for abstracts, readability, readability testing, compatibility with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards, and informativeness are among the topics covered. (12 references) (KRN)

Argues that the use of microcomputers and prewritten computer programs can save teachers time and effort in calculating the readability levels of written materials. (FL)

Shows some similarities and differences between readability formulas and leveling procedures and reports some current large-scale uses of readability formulas. Presents a dictionary definition of readability and leveling, and a history and background of readability and leveling. Discusses what goes into determining readability and leveling scores.…

Following a brief discussion of two facets of written material readability--reading ease and human interest--two reasons why written instructional material may be so difficult to read are considered: use of technical vocabulary and abstract language. Suggestions to make written instructional materials more readable are provided. (MBR)

Presents a computerized readability scoring system that allows for the calculation and comparison of several formulas with no corresponding increase in teacher effort. (FL)

This report presents information regarding Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) guidelines as they relate to the Accelerated Reader program. The report states that a student's zone of proximal development is the range of book readability levels that will challenge a student without causing frustration or loss of motivation. It discusses factors…

This book addresses the task of matching books to students' reading levels, or book leveling. It assists teachers in making informed choices about appropriate leveling systems, recommends which books can be used in instruction, and suggests how book text level and student reading abilities may correspond. The book will help classroom teachers and…

The article examines the available means of determining the readability of written materials and reviews the empirical evidence that indicates consideration of syntactic complexity in determining readability. Problems with readability formulas are pointed out. Guidelines for using readability formulas that take syntactic complexity into account…

This booklet is comprised primarily of the summaries of computerized readability assessments of sample passages from each story or chapter in a reading textbook series for grades one through eight. Introductory chapters offer discussions of the computerized readability assessment program used, the various uses of readability information about a…

The Raygor Readability Estimate, described in this article, is much like the widely used Fry Readability Graph, except that it determines vocabulary difficulty by counting words of six or more letters, rather than by counting syllables. An evaluation found that Raygor was faster and easier to use and more objective than the Fry method. (RM)

The manual is intended to help writers or adapters of instructional materials for deaf students. The first section examines difficulties in providing suitable reading material for deaf students. The problems in evaluating deaf students' reading levels are examined. Writers are cautioned to pay particular attention to syntax, vocabulary, and…

This book is a guide to the evaluation and development of textbooks that focuses on the research on which they are based to the writing of the text. It also explores research into textbook effectiveness and provides an overview of the research in the field. The chapters are: (1) "Respondents' Opinions"; (2) "Evaluation of Textbooks by…