Compares the whole-language approach to the language experience approach. Notes that the major criticisms cited of language experience appear to be cited of whole language. Suggests that the tenets of whole language fit into preparing for the year 2000 and discusses the survival of the movement in relation to teacher preparation. (RS)

Describes a phonetic spelling scheme called "Rational Spelling" that is claimed to be easy to learn and use and that could be used to encourage students to read and write freely at an early age. (SR)

Considers "what didn't work" in literature-based reading programs. Analyzes messages to teachers in teachers' guides for such programs published between 1990 and 1995. Follows M. Foucault's interpretations of historical, social, and cultural constructions of discourses. Finds the literature-based visions become blurred as the mixed…

Investigates Nebraska elementary school teachers' attitudes about whole language. Finds that teachers with a higher tendency to use whole language were those who felt more comfortable with whole language, had training in whole language, felt whole language should replace basal programs, and felt whole language can be used in conjunction with…

In Turkey, the Ministry of National Education (MONE) changed the reading instruction method in elementary schools from whole language approach to phonics emphasis in 2005. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to examine the impacts of phonics method on reading acquisition in a Turkish sample; to understand what elementary school teachers…

Contends that the ability and openness to make informed decisions about future classroom reading programs increases with preservice teachers' personal immersion in a whole language environment. Describes strategies used in reading methods courses that allow students to experience what they may be expected to implement as teachers. (RS)

Discusses three trends in approaches to reading and literacy instruction: (1) the move from basal to literature-based instruction; (2) the move from emphasis on product to emphasis on process; and (3) the trend away from teacher as technician toward teacher as decision maker. States that these trends will result in profound and lasting changes in…

Describes systematic assessment procedures as alternatives to standardized testing which yield more descriptive records of children's reading abilities. Notes that the assessment procedures are consistent with the contemporary understanding of reading which indicates that prior knowledge and the ability to use predictive skills greatly influence…

Defines vital whole-language components and then suggests how the clinical supervision preconference, data collection, and postconference cycle can be used to identify and analyze teacher concerns or questions. Discusses three data collection techniques appropriate for the whole-language classroom. (RS)

Reflects that the term "whole language" involves instilling a love of literature, problem-solving and critical thinking, collaboration, authenticity, personalized learning, and much more. Examines some recent research dealing with two fundamental points of contention between the two sides of the phonics and whole language debate. Finds evidence…

Investigates whether parents, teachers, and principals agree on the basic reading issue of whole language versus traditional skill literacy development. Finds that the three groups responded in essentially the same manner to items in the survey--they favored a broad, eclectic approach to emergent literacy development. (RS)

Compares the effects of basal and whole language approaches on the reading achievement of first grade students. Finds no statistically significant differences in reading achievement between classes taught with a basal approach or with a whole language approach. (RS)

Assesses the reading achievement of two groups of first grade students receiving instruction with different reading strategies and philosophies. Finds that average and below-average students benefited from a consistent instructional format that utilized direct instruction, authentic literature, and integrated decoding strategies. (NH)

States that many American children have difficulty learning to read (44% read below grade level). Explains the viewpoint of the phonics group and what those involved with whole language believe. Calls for dispassionate inquiry into how to raise reading levels, instead of the battle of the two methodologies as exists now. (PA)

Discusses the author's varied experiences in teaching reading, including teaching seventh grade pupils in the West Bank of Jordan, taking graduate courses in reading, and being an elementary school principal and a university professor. Suggests the need for a rational balance between whole language and phonics. (RS)