For children with poor vocabulary development, reading is intimidating rather than exciting. That is why elementary and middle school teachers need this activity-filled guidebook--to improve students' independent word learning skills and strengthen their comprehension so they will tackle their schoolwork with confidence. Teachers will start by…

This paper considers reading research carried out by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). The paper presents a synthesis of this research on reading. It begins with a note about the NICHD research program and a discussion of how the program is different from other studies of reading. It then discusses a new…

This paper describes a five-phase, 20-week, computer supported reading comprehension instruction process, which begins with access to powerful supports and direct teacher-mediated instruction. The process involves five phases: (1) fully supported reading and strategy instruction; (2) strategy practice in a fully supported reading environment with…

Demographic trends indicate that in the 21st century, second-language issues in early literacy development will remain a pressing concern. According to the 1990 U.S. census, over 6.3 million children between the ages of 5 and 17 spoke a language other than English at home (Crawford, 2001). This number has grown to over 9.7 million as estimated…

Advocates the seminar/discussion method of teaching to facilitate comprehension/interpretation of scientific facts, with the understanding that acquiring facts is a prerequisite. Points out the increased burden on teacher time resulting from increased teacher-student contact and reiterates the motto "Theory guides, experiment decides," as the…

Ascertained influence of an intervention in development of operational seriation/transitivity in kindergarten/first-grade children (N=60) who initially failed to demonstrate ability to do seriation/transitivity problems. Seriation of size was also studied. Results, interpreted in context of Piaget's equilibrium theory, indicated advancement toward…

This paper analyzes: (1) the task of learning to read, in the context of cognitive and linguistic tools a child has at his/her disposal; (2) how these tools change with further development and experience; and (3) how teachers can foster this development and growth. Eight research-based recommendations for classroom teaching are given. (PP)

Students can become better listeners by learning to: (1) listen accurately; and (2) listen critically, when interpretation is required. Teachers can foster accurate listening through games demanding close attention to rhythm instruments and directions. They can encourage critical listening through music exercises and activities that involve…

Five contributors suggest ways to (1) develop oral reading skills; (2) adapt the language experience approach for use with the mildly handicapped, slow learner; (3) conduct a "ditto-less day" in the classroom; (4) use microcomputers for reading comprehension; and (5) use LEA with basal readers. (FL)

Discusses research supporting the contention that listening fluency should be taught first and oral response delayed because languaqe acquisition takes place without any overt performance. Includes extensive bibliographic references. (PMJ)

Six drills are presented to enhance aural sensitivity in students who may have only minimal knowledge of music theory. The exercises require little preclass preparation and none takes longer than five minutes. Drills cover scales, pitch and rhythm memory, pitch patterns, and corrective listening with pitch patterns and melodies. (SJL)

Suggests using analogies to aid in reading instruction. (MKM)

Discusses the use of recordings from Radio Canada and Radio France in advanced high school or college French classes. Techniques for using the recordings, particularly interviews, are suggested. A 16-item selective bibliography is appended. (AM)

Describes how to help children comprehend what they read using an experience-text-relationship method of discussing and reading class material. (MKM)

Describes the assessment of the revised objectives of an English reading course offered at Kuwait University to foster reading comprehension for academic purposes. Analysis of data obtained from pre- and posttests showed improvement in reading skills although there were differences between students who were Arts and Science majors. (19 references)…