Discusses the role of narration in the adapted verbal interactions between child and adult that help children acquire and master language, from birth on. Notes that, when a child attempts to retell stories read aloud, he or she can progressively master the kind of syntactically structured and decontextualized language necessary for access to…

This study evaluated effects of training parents of 33 children (ages 3 to 6) with mild/moderate language delays in either effective joint book-reading techniques (using the Whitehurst Dialogic Reading Training Program) or more general conversational instruction. Results suggest the potential of the book-reading training for facilitating language…

Discusses the creation of a reading niche for second-language learners to motivate their development as independent readers, emphasizing that book selection for this niche should cater to student interests and that informal discussion of the books' subject matter should take place. (six references) (CK)

Argues that, within the elementary classroom, reading aloud sessions that exclude ethnically diverse materials creates a bias in favor of the status quo that is harmful to children's education. Both long- and short-term recommendations are made to teachers who wish to address the needs of their diverse classrooms. (GR)

This study examined the impact of a literacy intervention comprised of four parent workshops about reading to children on preschoolers' receptive vocabulary. Findings indicated that children of parents attending the workshops had a significant 7- point increase in their Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test scores at a 7-month follow-up. Parent…

Presents 18 ideas for talking about books with junior and senior high school students. Topics discussed include starting with nonbook materials such as magazines, music, and videos; discussing popular authors and series; student participation in reading aloud dialogs from books; relating personal experiences; and surveying students' reading and…

Examines the relationship between reading ability and home environment to determine what variables most accurately predict reading achievement. Finds that the father's education level, the amount of reading done to children before school entry, and the variety of print materials read in the home are highly significant predictors of reading…

Investigates whether frequent small group readings in school increases comprehension scores and the number and complexity of comments and questions from children of low socioeconomic status. Finds that story reading in small groups increases comprehension and the number and complexity of questions and comments. (RS)

Argues that incorporating literature into daily reading instruction opens up avenues that junior high remedial students may never think exist for them. Presents eight techniques to help teachers get started using literature in the remedial classroom. (RS)

Reviews research and anecdotal accounts which present instructional techniques and which suggest that the quality of instruction, quality of time, and quality of books are significant factors in ensuring that story reading is a true literacy event. Argues that consistent story readings facilitate the acquisition of the reading process. (RS)

Summarizes current research on teaching children to love reading, and identifies techniques that can be used by parents, teachers and librarians to foster this attitude. The topics discussed include the value of reading aloud to children, selecting children's books, the different interests of boys and girls, and reading to develop values. (six…

Describes recruitment strategies, roles, and training of participating college students, and barriers to implementation of Project PRIMER (PRoducing Infant/Mother Ethnic Readers). Notes that 147 low-income families participated, that parents engaged in the targeted behaviors, and that children in the high-intervention program showed improvements…

Describes Focus on Teenage Parents, a project with an integrated approach that incorporates material on child development, personal identity, and parenting issues to immerse high school students, many of them parents, in children's literature and process writing. (SR)

Considers intellectual and affective reasons for telling tales with young children, placing special emphasis on cultural and restorative effects of storytelling. Offers suggestions for helping young children become reflective--capable of valuing their cultural heritage and coping with personal difficulties. Includes guidelines for helping children…

Compared the quality of experience for children attending part-time nursery at different times of the day, focusing particularly on storytime. Findings suggest the two sessions are not of equal value to the children, that children may not be performing as well in the afternoon, and that traditional group storytime may not be as effective for the…