Published research shows that English speakers gain literacy skills up to the 7-year level more effectively when taught using a language experience approach rather than a word reading approach (reading common words plus phonic reading). It is suggested that this is because of the almost unique nature of English phonology, that is the strengthening…

A modification of the language experience approach in which meaningful experiences form the basis for evoking language is illustrated with an autistic person. (CL)

Establishes five premises on which language-centered reading is based and makes five recommendations for language-centered reading instruction. (DD)

This document presents the case for the use of situational reinforcement (SR) as a language teaching method of which all teachers of languages should be made aware. SR is defined as a horizontal approach to language learning, a process of gradual familiarization where students are presented with a mixture of language structures from the outset;…

Response to a critique on author's Language in Use" approach to exploring the nature and function of language in the classroom. (MB)

A review of the research stresses the importance of language skills to beginning reading. (JH)

Examines several approaches to vocabulary development that are alternatives to direct vocabulary instruction. (AEA)

Reviews literature defining the characteristics of the complex puzzle children encounter moving from oral language to print. Illustrates that, by reading their own writing, children discover the precise connection between reading, writing, and language. (HTH)

Suggests a variation on the language experience approach designed for groups of nonverbal children. (MKM)

This paper describes and illustrates an approach to reading which combines the language experience approach (LEA) and imaginative play. The LEA and the components of the lesson are briefly reviewed. Imaginative play and its descriptive components are identified and explained. The procedure for combining the two elements is roughly as follows: The…

A noncategorical preschool program for handicapped children employs two language-intervention methods: a precision method in which groupings are made by ability level and data-taking procedures are emphasized; and an experiential method which involves pretesting and posttesting but provides groupings across all ability levels. (CL)

Discusses the need for systematic exploration of claims about the advantages of language experience dictations; recommends that teachers guide the rereading and editing of early dictations to facilitate comprehending behaviors, and that they help children explore writing conventions as their dictations indicate a readiness to learn them. (ET)

The language experience approach is a reading methodoloy that is highly organized, highly structured, and very systematic, but that allows teachers to teach without texts. It is a multiple, variegated set of activities designed to serve one purpose, namely, the instructional use of pupil's own language. As such, there are five interrelated aspects…

The study of psycholinguistics seems to enable English teachers to make their classes more effective and more enjoyable. (JH)

Described is how the utilization of the science classroom for the development of language skills, particularly in the area of writing. Suggested activities include crossword puzzles, poetry, puppet shows, comic books and letter writing. (Author/DS)