Attempts to determine whether the Raygor graph produces readability estimates compatible with estimates derived from the Fry graph, whether the Raygor graph is less time-consuming, and whether it lends itself to greater computational accuracy. (DD)

Examines the relationship of readability to usage of main idea clues in introductory texts in sociology and in English composition texts. Concludes that use of main idea clues provides a useful supplement to readability formulas in evaluating college textbooks. (SR)

Suggests that readability formulas are methodologically flawed and inappropriate measures of the readability of materials written for adults. Argues that the cloze procedure is preferable because it assesses the readability of material by its intended audience. Notes that possible users of the cloze procedure include school systems, government…

Noting that research indicating Newbery Medal books are not popular with elementary students in spite of their unquestioned superiority in plot, characterization, and style, a study examined the readability level of Newbery Medal winners from 1974 to 1986. Three readability formulas were used to assess readability: Gunning's Fog Index, Fry…

A new readability formula is designed to work on passages that are 40 to 99 words long, while existing readability formulas require a passage of 300 words or longer. The new formula requires the passage to have at least three sentences and is reliable for the fourth through the twelfth grades. (Four figures which demonstrate the use of the formula…

Edward Fry's Graph for Estimating Readability (Extended) was used to determine the approximate readability levels of books within the Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, and "Little House" series. The findings indicated that the levels of readability did not remain the same throughout each series, with the Nancy Drew series ranging in reading levels from…

The 42 teachers enrolled in a graduate reading course participated in a study examining the application of the Rauding Scale and the SEER technique, two global readability procedures. After a lecture on the topic of readability, the teachers rated eight passages with both readability formulas, and these ratings were compared to the predetermined…

Among the problems of using readability formulas in education are: reporting standardized scores as grade levels is often meaningless since in a single grade classroom there may be children reading two or three grades above or below grade placement; social mobility, busing policies, and changed patterns of living have increased the heterogeneity…

The purpose of this study was to test the validity of the Fry Readability Graph on an eighth grade social studies textbook. It was found to be a valid measure by using an achievement test, and by comparing between groups of students who should and should not have comprehended the test. For journal availability, see SO 505 690. (Author/JR)

Describes a study using the Fry Readability Graph to determine the parameter values for average readability and the range of readability of basal readers. (JM)

Assesses readability levels of selected elementary level microcomputer courseware by using the readability formulas of Dale-Chall and Spache; describes these established formulas; compares assessments with publishers' statements of courseware suitability; and compares results of the manually calculated Dale-Chall and Spache formulas with results…

Following a brief discussion of two facets of written material readability--reading ease and human interest--two reasons why written instructional material may be so difficult to read are considered: use of technical vocabulary and abstract language. Suggestions to make written instructional materials more readable are provided. (MBR)

A BASIC program is given that can calculate the approximate grade level of reading materials. (MK)