Critical review of the National Reading Panel report on fluency. Asserts that panel omitted or misinterpreted studies confirming the value of free reading in the classroom to improve student literacy. (Contains 24 references.) (PKP)

Discusses the benefits of implementing the practice of uninterrupted sustained silent reading (U.S.S.R.) in either a single classroom or an entire school building. (AEA)

Discusses the advantages of sustained silent reading as a method for developing life-long reading habits. (RB)

Discusses the rationale for sustained silent reading, suggests methods for implementing it, reports on studies showing its positive effects, and notes problems and benefits involved in sustained silent reading programs. (DD)

The article questions the increased use of highly structured instructional reading programs for hearing impaired students and suggests there is also a need for holistic approaches, such as the Adaptation of a Sustained Silent Reading approach to develop student skills and interests. (Author/DB)

Explains the use and benefits of silent, uninterrupted, sustained reading periods in elementary and middle grades. Indicates that the method not only improves reading and concentration skills, but allows the teacher to observe diagnostically the readers in his/her class. (DMM)

Concludes that while Sustained Silent Reading (S.S.R.) may be an effective technique for teaching reading, the data which support it are inconclusive. (RB)

Concludes that when its guidelines are met, sustained silent reading seems to unite selected positive aspects of both direct and open instruction models into an effective activity. (FL)

Argues that, in addition to teaching reading skills, teachers need to schedule time for children to practice reading. Presents specific guidelines for implementing a Sustained Quiet Uninterrupted and Independent Reading Time (SQUIRT) program which include how to find time, set a purpose, and set procedures. (NH)

Each clearly differentiated program of reading instruction is based on a selected psychological school of thought. Rather than emphasizing one traditional plan of teaching, the teacher needs to study and analyze the student's curricular achievement to see what fits into the learner's repertoire of skills and knowledge. The materials and methods of…

Suggests that the more effective sustained silent reading programs included eight common components: access to books, book appeal, comfortable environment, encouragement, staff training, non-accountability, follow-up activities, and distributed time to read. Discusses these eight components. Shares some of the many different kinds of questions…

Describes a reading scheme in which seventh-grade students engage in sustained silent reading for one class period per week and the reading gains made by the students in the first six months of the year. (HTH)

Describes a program designed by educators in the Mukwanago, Wisconsin school system that used a variety of methods to encourage student reading, including a district-wide sustained silent reading day and a multiweek parent involvement program. (FL)

Investigates the overall effect of Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) on attitude toward reading and identifies the moderator variables of SSR on it. Suggests that providing a fixed period of time for students to read materials of their own choosing either for pleasure or for information facilitates their attitude toward reading. Supports the…

Recommends Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) in grades 2-12 to improve students' reading and to teach them to love to read. Outlines rules for SSR, and offers notes to the teacher on its implementation. (SR)