A model is proposed integrating curriculum based assessment and the "suspicion of disability" standard of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (PL 94 142) in the identification of students with reading problems. The model is founded on the developmental, corrective, and remedial strands of reading, and requires documentation…

This study investigated the effects of manipulating design features of a computer-mediated text system, using 45 hearing-impaired subjects in grades four-six. A system design using motivational activities facilitated vocabulary knowledge and writing performance. Also analyzed were use of extrinsic motivational activities versus intrinsic, and…

Describes literature study groups in which students choose the adolescent literature books they wish to read, write down their thoughts in journals, and share their reading experiences in discussion groups. Notes that students respond favorably, actively involving themselves in reading and discussing books. Discusses the problem of evaluating…

Processes and outcomes associated with Reading Recovery and Success for All reading instruction programs were studied for first graders in 3 schools (n=184). Reading Recovery strongly benefited tutored students, but Success for All was more beneficial for special education students and untutored students. (SLD)

Eight curriculum guides are provided for music and social studies; reading/language arts/social studies; reading/language arts; science; science/art; social studies. Objectives, resources, grade level, activity procedures, evaluation and follow-up suggestions are outlined for each activity. (JKP)

The article explains how elementary teachers can strike a balance between whole language and traditional approaches to reading instruction, describing successful programs and sharing several teachers' suggestions for combining the two methods in the classroom. A list of reading resources is included. (SM)

Students (n=12) in a self-contained elementary class for students with learning disabilities were taught using instructional conversation (IC), a teaching method in which students are engaged in interactions promoting analysis, reflection, and critical thinking. IC promoted oral participation and interactions among students and provided a holistic…

This paper discusses the Thai reading curriculum in use at the Foreign Service Institute, focusing on the development of the Thai curriculum over the past four years. It describes the instructional materials used in the program, activities developed to accompany the materials, and suggestions for improvement. Feedback from instructors and students…

The use of the Peabody Classwide Peer Tutoring (CWPT) method to accommodate diverse learners, in conjunction with curriculum-based measurement (CBM), is discussed. Peabody CWPT activities and CBM use in reading are addressed, and a case study illustrates how Peabody CWPT can be adapted based on CBM data. (SW)

Delinquents (n=116) with reading disabilities were given daily multisensory (Orton/Gillingham approach) remedial reading instruction or regular reading instruction. One year after release, the treatment group had made significantly greater growth in reading and had a significantly lower rate of recidivism. (Author/DB)

This paper traces the theoretical foundations of the Spalding Method of teaching reading, from the original concepts of Samuel T. Orton through validation in current cognitive science and learning theory. Descriptions of implementation with regular and special education children are provided. The method provides direct, multisensory instruction in…

This examination of reading in New Zealand classrooms found that deaf children (n=45, ages 5-10) spent very low amounts of time engaged in reading and were subjected to teacher interactions that may inhibit the development of meaning-based reading skills. Case studies showed that more time spent reading led to greater reading achievement.…

Relationships between reading comprehension (RC) and critical thinking skills, vocabulary, and cognitive ability were examined using 3 tests with 165 underachieving first-year college students in a remedial reading class. The Iowa Silent Reading Test's vocabulary subtest best predicted RC. The Developing Cognitive Abilities Test's three subtests…

Disputes the version of whole language presented by Michael McKenna et al. in the preceding article. Argues that whole language is an educational paradigm complete with theoretical, philosophical, and political assumptions and a congruent research agenda. Contends that "paradigm blindness" prevents critics from seeing the legitimacy of…

This article describes the use (in Minneapolis, Minnesota) of curriculum-based measurement (CBM) to monitor reading progress, including development of CBM reading probes, administration and scoring of the CBM reading test, determination of appropriate measurement levels, setting of long-range goals, and program evaluation. Research in this area is…