Finding the right fit between students' reading ability and textbooks is very important for comprehension. Readability studies aim to analyse texts to find the right fit between students and texts. In this literature review, readability studies are classified under quantitative, qualitative and combined quantitative-qualitative readability…

Two readability formulas were applied to two math and two reading series textbooks at the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade levels to see whether the publishers' suggested reading levels were accurate. Five samples were taken from each text and compared to the publishers' suggested usage according to grade level. Results showed that although formulas…

Presents a study of United States History textbooks that identifies possible shortcomings of several readability formulas as tools in determining the appropriateness of reading materials. Suggests additional factors to consider when selecting textbooks and techniques to help students understand reading materials. (AEM)

Reports substantial discrepancies between publishers' estimates and independent estimates of the readability of secondary school-level language arts textbooks. (FL)

This textbook is the second book in part of a series of readers made for silent reading. A distinctive feature of this reader is the unique provision made for silent reading. The stories have been selected for their child-interest and wholesome ethical content. This book is based on the belief that what the child needs when they have gained…

Raises questions about the readability criteria used by publishers and editors of reading textbooks in selecting and assembling materials for middle grade reading texts. (RL)

A study (1) surveyed the views of educators and textbook publishers regarding suitable reading levels of textbooks used for instruction in reading and content area subjects; (2) examined preferences for difficulty of reading textbooks considering students' achievement levels and for reading content area textbooks when selections are made for…

Examines 12 reading texts about Robin Hood, with regard to their content, suitability for various age levels, and language difficulty. The texts are found to be best suited for grades 5 and 6. An evaluation of each text is included. (IFS/WGA)

Noting that traditional measures of textbook difficulty and traditional measures of student reading ability suffer from a lack of correspondence, this booklet deals with the problems of (1) identifying the levels of conceptual difficulty of text materials, (2) identifying students' abilities to understand text materials, (3) matching the…