Whole language learning implies that teachers look at adult learners as whole persons rather than just ESL learners. It asks the teachers to see the learners in their classes as parents, spouses, employees or business owners, neighbors, churchgoers, and members of various communities. In other words, when they approach learners in their classes as…

This digest discusses some of the ways children develop functional phonics knowledge in the context of authentic reading and writing, as well as some of the ways teachers can foster such development. The digest suggests that children develop phonics knowledge by: having familiar stories or poems read to them repeatedly; discussing letter/sound…

A whole-language instructional approach is presented for use with students with learning disabilities. Teacher behaviors are outlined, including demonstrating, expecting success, and responding to students. Learner behaviors are also discussed, such as using language in natural situations, making approximations in their learning, taking…

Applies principles of whole-language instruction to the teaching of sign language skills. Emphasis is on the holistic use of sign language in natural communicative situations. Some materials for this approach to sign language instruction are suggested. (DB)

This article presents strategies, including communicative reading strategies, to facilitate holistic language learning in young children with language and learning disorders. Strategies include pairing oral and written language and using preparatory sets, semantic maps, flowcharts, and theme building. An example of narrative discourse demonstrates…

This review of research on the use of whole language with students with hearing impairments identifies recurring themes, such as whole language is effective for students from a variety of backgrounds and age levels, and literacy development of deaf students exposed to a literate environment parallels that of hearing students. (JDD)

Setting low standards and expectations for the language achievement of students with deafness or hearing impairments results in a self-fulfilling prophecy. A whole-language approach is based on a philosophy of high expectations and recognizes differences among students as factors that add richness to the exploration of language. (JDD)

Discusses the use of mini-lessons within thematic units as forums for language learning and content development for intermediate grade students with hearing impairments. A project to enhance the language arts curriculum at the Nebraska School for the Deaf uses the whole language mini-lessons to work on skill development, clarify misunderstandings,…

Offers suggestions to incorporate holistic reading and writing activities into existing curricula and classroom structure to create a print-rich environment in which children use reading and writing in meaningful ways. (MG)

Reprints a talk presented to teacher trainers in 1990 that surveys thinking on language acquisition, specifically on the transition from orality to literacy, focusing on Montessori connections and applications. (HTH)

This paper defines the whole language approach and identifies its strengths and weaknesses. An integrated instructional approach is recommended, balancing meaning and exposure to literature with skills instruction and practice. (Author/JDD)

This paper describes the whole language approach to literacy education in the context of teaching adults. Information is drawn from literature and from interviews with teachers and literacy students. Topics covered include the following: whole language--a framework, learning language, learning through language, learning about language, what people…

This article explores the assumptions of traditional remedial and learning disabilities education and summarizes empirical evidence challenging this approach; examines the assumptions underlying whole language and the teacher's role in a whole language context; presents data on the efficacy of whole language instructional programs; and discusses…

This paper presents theoretical principles of the whole language approach and its historical interdisciplinary influences. Suggestions for implementing whole language intervention with language-disordered children are presented, such as using theme building to achieve long- and short-term objectives, using scaffolding strategies, and using…

A preschool teacher of children who are deaf or hard of hearing describes her classroom program, which provides children with opportunities to make choices; encourages whole language learning through theme cycles; teaches by means of learning centers, dramatic play, and science investigations; and reinforces the day's activities through use of a…