Number 12 in a series on problems of French grammar and usage. (DS)

Discusses diacritical marks that are symbols belonging to the official spelling of particular languages and pleads for better knowledge of diacritics especially in American referene works, style books and periodicals. Suggests an international standardization of diacritics or a common endeavor to eliminate them. (MB)

Discusses the "Plain English" movement in relation to legal and bureaucratic documents and, especially, courtroom proceedings. Points out ways that language can be manipulated in order to enhance the powerlessness of participants in court litigation. (GC)

Reviews results of 55 experiments comparing learning from illustrated text and learning from text alone. Research in closely related fields--nonrepresentational pictures (maps, diagrams, graphic organizers), learner-produced drawings, mental imagery, and oral prose--is also examined, and guidelines for practice are offered. A 160-item reference…

Sets forth five principles designed to make teacher-written directions easier for students who are poor readers to follow. (FL)

Argues that the standards for formulating comprehension questions do not take into account the differences between written and spoken language. Introduces mutuality-enhancing devices as a way to improve oral comprehension questioning. (FL)

General American Symbols, speech and phonic symbols adapted from the Northampton symbols, are presented as a simplified system for teaching reading and speech to deaf children. Ways to use symbols for indicating features of speech production are suggested. (Author)

Examines basic properties of selected orthographies of various languages and suggests that they play a crucial role in transferring reading ability across languages, especially if the language systems are quite different. (FL)

Discusses the Greek contribution to the alphabet and the development of written communication. Contrasts oral and written traditions and the impact of each. (JMF)