This article presents an interview with two experts in whole-language instruction (Patricia Tefft Cousin and Margaret Richeck) and then offers a commentary section that provides another perspective of the whole-language method, concluding that children with learning disabilities need many types of instruction. (JDD)

This tribute to Samuel Kirk, an early leader in the field of learning disabilities, is written by a former student. It focuses on his experiences and contributions while at Milwaukee State Teachers College (Wisconsin). Kirk's supervision of practice teaching, his role as an editor and co-author, and his ideas about teaching reading are recounted.…

Examines the content and instructional plans for phonics and word recognition to be used with children with reading disabilities. Information is provided about the content of effective word-recognition instruction. Guidelines are included on other aspects of reading instruction that are central to accessible classroom programs. (Author/CR)

This paper reviews the history of whole-language versus code-emphasis approaches to reading instruction. The paper concludes that students with severe learning disabilities may learn to read in a whole-language, mainstream classroom, if provided with supplemental instruction, a variety of instructional techniques, and appropriate intensity and…

This tribute to Samuel Kirk, an early leader in the field of learning disabilities, describes his prominent achievements in reading instruction, including research in remedial reading and identification of reading instruction principles such as stages of reading development, importance of prereading abilities, and the need for explicit, systematic…

This article briefly outlines key issues related to the neurological substrate of basic language and reading functions in native speakers of Indo-European and Oriental Languages, and in individuals who are competent in more than one language. Modern neuroimaging techniques have been used in order to address conflicting results produced by older,…

This study reviews research indicating that specific instruction in reading comprehension strategies is effective in improving comprehension for students, including those with learning disabilities. The reading strategies of highly competent readers are identified, and effective application of transactional strategies instruction with weak…

Fifty-five 3rd-grade students, 27 of them with learning disabilities, were interviewed to determine their perceptions of grouping formats in reading instruction, with emphasis on small, mixed-ability groups. Students perceived that there are definite benefits and drawbacks to working in this format, including pacing, embarrassment, and working…

The purpose of this article is to describe features of interventions that are empirically validated for use with first-grade students at risk for reading disabilities who are English language learners (ELLs) and whose home language is Spanish. The empirical evidence supporting these interventions is summarized. Interventions for improving oral…

This study evaluated the transfer of decoding skills from a code-emphasis program that used a controlled text to a literature-based basal reading series consistent with the whole language approach. Participants were 11 elementary students with learning disabilities who received reading instruction in a resource program. Results found students…

The effectiveness of the "Laubach Way to Reading" program was examined with four adolescents with learning disabilities who were reading below the fifth-grade level. Students made significant gains on basic reading skills and comprehension. Students' success depended on being provided with supplemental lists of more challenging words…

This article presents an empirical basis for the relationship between reading and writing, a theoretical socio-historical model of teaching and learning that highlights the purposeful nature of both reading and writing as creating meaning, and instructional strategies for creating literacy events that promote learning-disabled students'…

Students (n=12) in a self-contained elementary class for students with learning disabilities were taught using instructional conversation (IC), a teaching method in which students are engaged in interactions promoting analysis, reflection, and critical thinking. IC promoted oral participation and interactions among students and provided a holistic…

A special education teacher and a reading specialist who team taught fourth-grade students with learning disabilities were observed to determine the ways in which the teachers' beliefs and practices influenced their decisions about strategy instruction. The effects of strategy instruction on their reading and writing workshops are examined. (CR)

The Thematic Unit approach to content-area learning integrates reading, writing, and speaking exercises for learning-disabled students while fostering active and strategic study of the content. Features include use of natural materials, teaching of learning strategies, and emphasis on student decision making and involvement. Guidelines are…