Three second-grade students with learning disabilities were measured twice a week for 12 weeks on 2 types of curriculum-based measurement (computer maze and oral reading) and an intervention of repeated readings was implemented. Data indicated that the repeated reading intervention affected oral reading CBM, but not performance on the maze…

Describes a promising approach to literacy instruction for Latina/o middle school students struggling with literacy that emphasizes culturally relevant quality literature and that focuses heavily on comprehension-enhancing strategies. (SR)

Using a multiple baseline across students design, the effects of an integrated picture mnemonic strategy on the letter-sound acquisition of three transitional first-grade students with special needs were investigated. Follow-up data indicated the method was an effective instructional technique and that results were maintained over time. (Author/DB)

A "transitivity" analysis within a systematic functional grammar is used to explore what the discourse of reading lessons looks like in one secondary school context and to examine what is being communicated about the culture of schooling. Conclusions are drawn concerning the value of teacher and test-authorising strategies. (Author/JL)

This article describes an elementary school's use of a curriculum-based measurement (CBM) system that allowed teachers to develop reading and mathematics interventions to assist students with and without disabilities. Presents a step-by-step approach to developing CBM and guidelines for implementing CBM in entire classrooms or for individual…

Eleven seventh-grade students with mild disabilities in a general language arts classroom participated in a study that examined the effects of an instructional approach based on Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences. Results found the students were more engaged in classroom activities and that eight of the students demonstrated more…

This study evaluated the transfer of decoding skills from a code-emphasis program that used a controlled text to a literature-based basal reading series consistent with the whole language approach. Participants were 11 elementary students with learning disabilities who received reading instruction in a resource program. Results found students…

This article discusses ineffective practices and educational outcomes attributed to the whole language approach which may stem from other educational dynamics, such as failure to provide adequate training or mentoring to teachers, confusing language as a communication process with language arts skills, and failure to apply known principles of…

Two school districts that implemented a whole language curriculum were studied to determine how well students learned traditional reading and writing skills. Analysis of standardized testing, teacher and administrator interviews, and whole language theories indicated students were learning skills as well as they had with a traditional curriculum.…

Discusses the Accelerated Reader software program and describes a project conducted with fourth grade students that investigated strategies for teaching reading and writing comprehension. Topics include generative learning theory; higher order thinking skills; generating original reading comprehension questions; and thinking maps and question…

Explains a case study in Retrospective Miscue Analysis (RMA), a process which enables readers to discuss the underlying logic of their miscues. Concludes that RMA is a powerful tool in crafting and guiding reading instruction. Notes that when the student subject was encouraged to use reading strategies that worked for him, he became empowered as a…

Discusses how early childhood educators can use reading lessons as part of a global curriculum and help children develop an understanding of other peoples and their customs. Includes criteria for choosing international books as early reader selections, and annotated lists of picture books for beginning readers, chapter books for young readers, and…

An Oregon school district implemented an approach to reading that goes beyond instruction to prevention. Starting in kindergarten, the model features regular assessment, direct instruction, small-group instruction, and training for all teachers and assistants. At-risk kindergartners get extra reading instruction. Today, only 2 percent of kids…

Describes arts-based, anchored instruction at Fair Arts IMPACT Elementary School (Columbus, Ohio), a five-week program centered around "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" (Georges Seurat). Addresses unit objectives such as understanding social climate with respect to race/gender discrimination and examining why people…

The need for phoneme awareness and methods of fostering phoneme awareness are discussed, along with available assessment measures, research findings, and phonological awareness training programs. Educators are urged to use phoneme awareness techniques for assessment and remediation when appropriate. (CR)