This report focuses on techniques that can be used to learn more about the strengths and shortcomings of reading programs, of the teaching of reading, and of the students involved. The first article provides information about the "Handbook of Planning an Effective Reading Program," a guide published by the California State Department of…

It is often difficult to distinguish those students with learning problems due to individual differences in learning styles or achievement difficulties from those students with specific disorders; failure to do so sometimes results in inappropriate referral of language minority students to special education. It also contributes to disproportionate…