Since the rise of the whole language movement, Sylvia Ashton-Warner's key vocabulary, individualized reading, and experience charts have been notable for their omission from the many books available on whole language. Whole language strength is notable in at least four major areas: (1) its learner-centeredness; (2) its scorn of commercial…

Focuses on one procedure in whole-language reading instruction--individualized reading. Pinpoints a need for an adequate supply of appropriate library books to read and opportunities for pupils in a committee to have a group conference with the teacher. Cites selected issues that need resolving when heavy emphasis is placed upon phonics…

The first article describes the whole language approach as an outgrowth of individualized reading and the language experience approach, which encourages students to read books about their own interests, regardless of their reading levels. The second suggests ways in which media specialists can contribute to the planning and implementation of whole…

Numerous concepts in the teaching of reading have been emphasized since the middle of the 20th century. Four such concepts are the Initial Teaching Alphabet (ITA), traditional linguistic procedures, rebus, and programmed reading. Each has advantages and serious disadvantages. ITA stressed a rather consistent sound/symbol relationship, but pupils…

Summarizes the latest issues and research on reading that are of particular interest to classroom teachers. Discusses phonics versus whole language, meeting individual student needs, matching teaching strategies to grade levels, the reading-writing link, and using technology to support instruction. (WRM)

A study examined differences between a prescriptive individualized approach to literacy instruction in adult basic education (ABE) settings. Six ABE classrooms participated in the study with four continuing traditional literacy instruction and two providing whole language-oriented literacy instruction. Average attendance per session was 12 adults.…

Intended to improve language and reading skills of selected underachieving students, the 1989-90 Compensatory Language Experiences and Reading Program (CLEAR) of the Columbus, Ohio, public schools served 5,135 pupils in grades 1-8. Implementation of the program was accomplished through daily instructional activities to strengthen and extend…