Describes the integration of text previews (teacher-developed synopses of the text) and three-level study guides (encouraging factual, inferential, and problem solving responses). Claims a combination of these constitutes a powerful strategy for content area reading. (RS)

Examines the differences between oral and written languages, including differences in register, style, and syntax. Asserts that reading aloud and giving instructions are two ways to focus on the connection between oral and written language and the processes of reading and writing. (MM)

Second-language teachers are encouraged to develop two forms of reading, silent and oral, in classroom instruction. The relationship between the two is discussed, and aspects of oral communication that teachers can explore (voice, multiplicity of voices, movement and gesture, use of props, and spatial use) are examined. (MSE)

This study compared six adults' learning of English names for Chinese visual characters, through prototype instruction (in which participants were taught the meaning of the distinctive feature of multicomponent characters) and rote instruction (in which participants traced the character and wrote its translation). Participants learned more rapidly…

Proposes that dance is a language with its own symbols, gestures, and aesthetics with the power to communicate complex ideas and thoughts. Outlines how discussion, analysis, and criticism can be crafted from three major elements of dance: (1) space; (2) time; and (3) energy. Asserts that students can learn to read dance as a visual text. (CFR)

The effectiveness of the "Laubach Way to Reading" program was examined with four adolescents with learning disabilities who were reading below the fifth-grade level. Students made significant gains on basic reading skills and comprehension. Students' success depended on being provided with supplemental lists of more challenging words…

Reports on a study of the relationship of both phonemic and musical sound discrimination to reading ability among 18 British first graders. Finds that discrimination of musical sounds is related to music performance but that the influential factor is a specific awareness of pitch changes. (CFR)

The 1993 Education Act in Great Britain presents classroom teachers and special educational needs coordinators with fresh challenges with students who have reading and writing failure. Improved initial training of primary teachers is needed so they are equipped to address manifest reading and spelling difficulties, predict where problems can…

Explores the development of a literature-based writing unit with computers for at-risk students through the creation of a Literacy Club. Suggests that current technology can provide the incentive required before at-risk students become willing participants in literary experiences. Literary Clubs can provide a rich context for learning to write…

Examined effects of explicit teaching and peer tutoring on reading achievement of learning-disabled students and nondisabled, low-performing readers in academically integrated classrooms. Found that explicit-teaching students did not achieve reliably better than controls; students in the explicit teaching plus peer tutoring condition scored higher…

Considers the benefits of extensive reading, examines some of the reasons for its failure to take off, describes two programs, and offers teachers some leading questions to help them develop their own programs. (three references) (Author/CK)

Describes a university-level English-as-a-Second-Language program that includes integration of text and film that bolsters the extensive reading process. Criteria for the selection of resource materials included a challenging vocabulary, an interesting plot, compatibility of film and text version, and universal themes. Integrating books and films…

Research-based reading interventions (peer tutoring, reciprocal teaching, effective teaching principles, computer-aided instruction, and two direct instruction models) were implemented by 37 special-education resource teachers working with 176 elementary school students with mild disabilities. The computer-assisted, reciprocal, and direct…

Reading comprehension training using the Question Answer Relationship (QAR) strategy approach was conducted with 23 third-grade children. Following QAR training, classwide peer-assisted sessions were held to practice asking and answering questions. Results found that all children improved their individual question generation and question answering…

This article considers classroom instruction in reading and writing for children with severe speech and physical impairments (e.g., cerebral palsy). A model of classroom instruction (involving teacher characteristics, context, process, and product) is offered, effective instructional strategies are identified, and recommendations are made to…