Describes "whole language" as a new term for literacy instruction which emphasizes application of reading and writing in meaningful contexts. Argues that the theoretical base for whole language is closely related to key ideas of language experience and psycholinguistics, but that whole language represents a new paradigm. (RS)

A whole language approach to learning can be successfully used with children with learning disabilities. The approach can alleviate difficulties children have with memory and cognitive problems, anxiety, self-esteem, locus of control, and attentional deficit. Procedures are outlined for implementation of the whole language approach in resource…

The Language Experience Approach (LEA) to teaching reading in English as a second language is described. LEA uses the student's own experiences, vocabulary, and language patterns to create texts for reading instruction. Three stages are defined for assessing learners' levels of language use. The LEA instructional procedures are designed to be…

Reading and writing instruction for gifted students should address their actual use in meaningful contexts. Reading instruction should emphasize use of authentic materials, modified use of basals, divergent student responses, etc. Writing instruction should emphasize writing as a tool for learning, function before form, and opportunities for…

This paper surveys methods for teaching reading and writing in kindergarten. The paper stresses the importance of accepting a child's own efforts, including invented spelling, and providing an atmosphere that encourages experimentation. Chapter 1 introduces the topic; chapter 2 provides a historical overview. The current state of the art is…

An approach to language arts instruction for hearing-impaired students is described, which emphasizes expression of ideas rather than mechanics. The approach uses literature response journals and discussions to develop critical reading and writing skills, and helps students make the connection between literature study and their own writing. (JDD)

Certain settings and activities can be initiated in the classroom to encourage reluctant writers to write. The classroom environment should be structured so that writing efforts produce positive reinforcement. Sharing ideas with peers or the teacher prior to writing will enable students to feel that their ideas are worthwhile. Children can be…

Beginning braille readers may benefit from an integrated-literacy curriculum which reflects the interrelationships of oral language, reading, and writing, and stresses the pleasurable and purposeful aspects of literacy. Integrating braille materials into daily curriculum activities can assist students to make the read/write connection and to begin…

This article discusses how parents can use the Language Experience Approach and Scaffolded Writing in the home environment to teach their children literacy skills and to prevent school failure. The benefits of parent involvement in influencing the quality and quantity of a child's literacy experiences is stressed. (Contains references.) (CR)

Intended for reading professionals, this yearbook contains 13 articles dealing with reading and allied fields divided into 2 sections: "Issues" and "Practices." The following articles focus on issues: "Wish Fulfillment and Other Dangers in Reading" (Joan Develin Coley); "Emergent Reading Research: Synthesis and…

A second grade teacher's use of storytelling to teach English language skills to both native speakers and learners of English as a second language (ESL) is described. The technique combines the concept of comprehensible input, the importance of stories and storytelling to children, and a commitment to teaching writing skills. Early in the day, all…

Focusing on the development of literacy, this book discusses the teaching of reading and writing through stories, songs, and poetry. It is argued that, to develop literacy, teachers must know what to teach, how to Teach efficiently, and how to assign practices through which children learn. The book is organized into three general parts. The first…

This volume contains an advice column and five papers on teaching behaviorally disordered youth. The "Grand Rounds" column offers advice on two teaching situations involving extremely disruptive classroom behavior and elective mutism. "The Franklin-Jefferson Program: Demonstration of an Integrated Social Learning Approach to…

This guide is intended for adult educators who work with limited English-speaking students in need of special literacy instruction. It was developed as an outgrowth of classes with adult English as a Second Language (ESL) students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Many of the students had little formal schooling in their native languages. The…

The LEX [language experience] Process for English Reading Instruction, a pilot project of the Guadalupe Educational Programs, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah, during 1980-81, is presented in this 300-page manual that describes how the LEX Process model may be replicated by educational agencies seeking to provide survival and functional English as a…