Recounts observations of a child's interactions with Beverly Cleary's Ramona books, noting that she exhibited "passionate attention" toward the characters by becoming involved with them and discussing them often. Shows that the child's comments grew from observations to criticism over time, and her passionate attention to Ramona expanded…

Presents an overview of the competing visions of the literature curriculum currently being advanced. Also presents the historical roots of the approaches, as well as the assumptions about learning and adolescents that each approach makes. (NKA)

Describes one statewide process of basal series selection and outlines the concerns of eight groups involved in the process. (FL)

If literacy is defined as the ability to read and write, in the context of Hong Kong, literacy is more commonly known as language proficiency. The introduction of the Hong Kong Extensive Reading Scheme in English (HKERS) in 1991 aimed to motivate the students to read and thus enhance their English proficiency. Yet, as of 2001, after a decade since…

Provides an excellent annotated bibliography concerning the post-World War II situation in Germany and the origins of the Cold War. Many of the books listed incorporate a wide range of primary sources including, memoirs, diary entries, newspaper accounts, and official documents. Some of the annotations include teaching suggestions. (MJP)

Presents four reading activities, including "The Winter Tradition Project" (B. E. Sargent); "Using Children's Choice Books to Enhance Math and Health Instruction" (E. C. Webre); "Science Learning Centers: Seatwork Alternatives" (P. Piech); and "Checkered Word Fun" (L. R. Gauthier). (MG)

Describes a study that explored the possible relationship between the use of school library materials, participation in paperback books clubs, and the reading achievement of rural sixth graders. Results suggest the importance of the elementary school library media specialist in encouraging reading and assisting with student selection of books.…

Criticizes most history textbooks for presenting a single perspective with few conflicting ideas. Characterizes literature-based instruction as a resource rich in multiple viewpoints that invites the reader to enter into moral discussions about historical events. Presents several examples of trade books illustrating specific historical periods…

Incorporating augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and microcomputers into whole language learning activities for children with severe physical and speech impairments is discussed. Six typical strategies of whole language programs are reviewed. Ways to provide students with severe disabilities access to these programs are…

"Bunko" are local mini-libraries for children in Japan, operated voluntarily by individuals or groups of parents, intended to nurture children's reading interest by offering them an inviting reading environment. In 1993, there were an estimated 4,000 bunko in Japan, with approximately 32,000 adult bunko members (90% female). Bunko…

A study investigated attitudes and preferences concerning reading among fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students in Portuguese-language schools in the United States. Extrinsic factors influencing students (parents, teachers) were also analyzed. The research took place in 10 schools in 5 states. Data were obtained using questionnaires (students)…

A study investigated low-income children's book reading experiences with their mothers and in group reading in preschool when the children were 3 and 4 years old. At the age of 3 years, the primary focus of book readings in both settings was immediate information. Mothers were significantly more likely than teachers to use extending comments, and…

This annotated bibliography of supplementary adult literacy materials was designed to enhance the existing literacy program being offered at the Mississippi State Penitentiary in Parchman, Mississippi. The annotations are arranged in the following 20 categories: automobiles; biography; communication skills; consumer information; coping skills;…

This collection of abstracts is part of a continuing series providing information on recent doctoral dissertations. The 28 titles deal with a variety of topics, including the following: (1) factors affecting third graders' comprehension of descriptive texts; (2) the trope density of selected first, second, and third grade basal readers; (3) a…

Recent research investigating the effects of sexism in elementary school textbooks on readers is reviewed to determine children's responses in terms of reading preferences, sex-role attitudes and behaviors, and comprehension abilities. The degree of sexism in textbooks was determined by the proportion of female main characters, the presentation of…