An ex post facto study examined third grade students' achievement test scores both before and after the adoption of a literature-based basal reading text. The experimental groups consisted of five third grade classes at Terre Town Elementary School (Indiana) for each of the years 1988 through 1993. Mean scores were plotted and data were visually…

The focus of this study was on the use of drama supplements to increase the reading fluency of first grade students in a suburban school. The subjects of this study were first grade students. They were between six and eight years old and attended a suburban school in Knoxville, Tennessee. The class contained eight girls and twelve boys. Students…

This paper examines reading research and fosters awareness of limitations in such studies. It begins by discussing the historical aspects of the basal reading program and the language experience and individualized reading approaches. It continues by reporting early studies conducted in these areas, and investigating problems with such studies. The…

The zone of proximal development provides guidance to the teacher in taking care of selected prerequisites, prior to pupils doing the actual reading. Three models are presented and elaborated upon to indicate what can be done to fulfill requirements of the zone of proximal reading. The zone may be applied in relation to reading from basal texts…

The authors discuss the syntax of the direct discourse format, commonly used in primary level reading material, and its effect on the reading ability of hearing impaired children. (Author)

Reviews elementary school teachers' reliance on commercial reading materials and suggests, as an objective factor for their teacher behavior, their belief that greater managerial control over classroom instruction will solve the problems of reading programs. Traces the evolution of this assumption and discusses its ramifications. (FL)

This article documents evaluations of the New Primary Grades Reading System (NRS). NRS was implemented in a variety of settings. Evaluations track implementation from early stages of pilot testing through large-scale adoption of NRS. Accumulation of evidence regarding success of innovation across settings allows greater confidence in conclusions…

Evaluates five basal reading series used in Australia according to the criteria set forth by R. Brimble in the preceding article. (HTH)

Notes that little research has been undertaken into the effects of anthropomorphism on children's reading and presents questions concerning the use of this device in beginning reading materials. (FL)

A study of 46 first-grade children to determine how basal instructed and language experience instructed children would differ in their use of written language cues revealed no significant differences between the two groups in their use of these cues. (TJ)

Surveys Texas teachers and principals regarding new basal readers implemented during the 1993/94 school year. Reveals that most respondents were pleased with the new basal adoption, felt the treatment of skills was acceptable, and were satisfied with the anthologies' literature selections. (SR)

Examines three complete basal reading programs to determine how frequently logically necessary relationships are expressed in the text and whether direct instruction in making logically necessary inferences accompanies such expressions in basals. Finds that, although basals offer a natural context in which logical understanding may be constructed,…

States that the beliefs and practices associated with holistic, child-centered teaching and literature-based reading instruction are being challenged at every turn. Finds that publishers have developed basals that purport to be all things to all people. Gives the history of basal reader development. Suggests that basal systems are being used as…

Describes the features of the first grade texts included in basal readers used for beginning reading instruction in Texas in 2000. Investigates the general features of student texts with respect to the instructional design of the text, the accessibility of the text for beginning readers, and the engaging qualities of the text. Suggests that policy…