Close Reading utilizes several strategies to help readers think more critically about a text. Close reading can be performed within the context of shared readings, read-alouds by the teacher, literature discussion groups, and guided reading groups. Students attempting to more closely read difficult texts may benefit from technologies and platforms…

This publication is a collection of eight articles and ten software reviews written by the author for "Micro Missive" since 1984. "Micro Missive" is a quarterly newsletter that has regularly informed International Reading Association members of new developments in computer-based instruction and reading/language arts through articles, software…

Reviews two software programs: "The Graph Club" which makes learning graphs "magical and exciting"; and "WiggleWorks," an "exciting" reading curriculum on CD-ROM. (SR)

Examines and evaluates microcomputer software designed to assist in diagnosing students' reading abilities and making instructional decisions. Claims that existing software shows valuable potential when used sensibly and critically by trained reading clinicians. (MM)

This comprehensive collection of information about software programs is intended to help secondary language arts teachers choose software to supplement their instruction of mildly handicapped students. The first section is a correlations matrix, which lists all software programs abstracted, indicates computer compatibility, and correlates each…

Evaluates several voice synthesis programs for emergent readers which can be used to help make the transition from listening and speaking to reading and writing. (MM)

Discusses aspects of computers and computer software that motivate at-risk inner-city students. Concludes that the computer definitely serves as an important medium of instruction for these students and that software determines its success or failure. Calls for more simulations requiring collaborative problem solving and continued use of…

Recommends software to help teachers plan curriculum in the areas of comprehensive language arts ("Cornerstone"); writing and information ("Keroppi Day Hopper"); creative writing and imagination ("Imagination Express"); reading ("Jo-Jo's Reading Circus"); math ("Careers in Math: From Architects to Astronauts") and nature ("Eyewitness"). Provides…

Describes a variety of software programs appropriate for whole-language learning. The software allows elementary students to make picture books and create posters, banners, greeting cards, puzzles, and minimovies and to do group writing activities. Also included is information on resources and computer reading packages. (SM)

Addressing many aspects of the use of computers in elementary reading instruction, this annotated bibliography in six sections contains 27 items from the ERIC database from 1987 to April 1989. The first section contains items discussing the pros and cons of such use; the second section deals with organizational aspects of computer use in the…

Noting that recent developments in computer technology facilitate the integration of media in literacy development, this paper reviews 18 items of courseware designed to promote literacy development within a whole language framework. The reviews are divided into four sections dealing with the following topics: (1) idea processors and the…

This guide summarizes and evaluates 48 educational software packages for special educators working on the specific skill areas of keyboarding, language arts, math, personal/social skills, problem solving, readiness, and reading. Each review is written by a teacher and covers strengths and weaknesses of the software, suggested activities for its…

This annotated bibliography reviews 41 pieces of educational software that are marketed for use in basic reading and conversational English programs. A variety of educational games, drill and practice programs, tutorials, problem-solving programs, and utility and authoring systems is included. Reading, math, writing, vocabulary, grammar, spelling,…

Two issues of this listing (August and September 1990) contain reviews of courseware for kindergarten through grade 12. Entries are classified by subject or application: communication skills, which include instruction in reading and writing; mathematics; microcomputer programing; science; social studies; and utilities (desktop publishing…

Reviewing computer applications in reading and reading instruction, this article covers the following topics: the emergence of computer instruction from teaching with television, the variety of input and output devices, types of interaction between user and program, methods and approaches, degrees of generalization, scope and capacity of programs,…