Most of today's reading programs rest on faulty ideas about reading comprehension. The author argues that comprehension is not a general skill; it relies on having relevant vocabulary and knowledge. He explains the need for a fact-filled, knowledge-building curriculum. He suggests that states should adopt a common core curriculum that builds…

For millions of American schoolchildren, taking a test for which they are completely unprepared is like a nightmare from which they cannot wake. It is a trial visited upon them each year when the law requires them to take reading tests with little preparation. Formally preparing for reading tests has become more than just a ritual for schools. It…

The "fourth grade slump" in reading comprehension still exists. Among poor children, low comprehension ruins their chances for academic success. Among all children, comprehension scores are stagnant. Research indicates that key to both problems is systematically building children's vocabulary, fluency, and domain knowledge. To improve reading,…

Explains that for effective classroom learning to occur, students must share a common base of knowledge to enable all students to learn steadily, albeit at differing rates and in response to varied approaches. Suggests that lack of this commonality is one cause of U.S. students' poor showing in international comparisons. Notes that what makes U.S.…

Presents several tributes to Jeanne Chall, long-time educator and director of the Reading Laboratory at Harvard University. The tributes focus on Chall's historic contribution to the field of reading research; her beliefs about the ability of all children to read; her written works; her abilities as a teacher and as a mentor; and her ability to…

Two papers examine how to promote literacy among high risk students by better utilizing literacy time blocks and providing faculty development. One explains that poor children with good decoding skills still can have vocabulary and comprehension deficiencies. The other describes how bringing reading research into the classroom requires giving…

Suggests that despite the Internet offering a world of information, students still need a broad storehouse of knowledge. Teachers must define the knowledge that students need and help them master it. If teachers convey general knowledge to students in a coherent, effective way, and encourage them to read widely, students will have the tools they…

Argues that politics and ideology have clouded the debate over education policy and hindered efforts to create the quality schools need most. Questions whether scientific research can help in creating students with "higher-order thinking." Discusses the consensus of research on pedagogy, classroom environment, pace, clarity, managing and…