"Motivation" is a regular column feature in issues of the journal "The Reading Teacher." Each column presents techniques for motivating students to read that have been submitted by readers of the journal. This compilation gathers together ten columns appearing across 1984-1985. The ten columns deal with the following topics: (1) listening and…

A proposed framework for a global theory of reading divides the total reading area into the following major systems: (1) the distinct reading skills and abilities which are involved with what the child can achieve, (2) the reading-learning process of the child which is involved with how he acquires reading skills, and (3) the actual teaching of…

The language the Negro child brings with him to school has a linguistic structure which is clearly distinguishable from that of standard English. His language is not a defective form of speech. There is, however, what Labov calls, "reciprocal ignorance," a mutual lack of comprehension for the other's language system. Writing is a secondary symbol…

Two types of diagnostic reading tests are described--tests of phonics skills and tests of work-study or critical reading ability. The following criteria for evaluating these tests are suggested: (1) an analysis of the methods used in measuring the component skills and the validity of subscores in designating areas for remedial instruction (the…

Several studies on the use of the cloze procedure as a measure of readability and of comprehension are reviewed. These studies showed (1) that the cloze procedure proved a more reliable measure of readability for nonstandard reading materials than the commonly used readability formulas, (2) that cloze tests are valid and reliable predictors of the…

The relationship of astigmatism to reading and the possible detrimental effects it might have on reading were investigated. The greatest incidence of astigmatism was for the with-the-rule type ranging from .50 to 1.00 diopter. This type of astigmatism was induced in 35 seniors from the Los Angeles College of Optometry by placing cylindrical lenses…

The conclusions and recommendations drawn from a 7-year study of the Initial Teaching Alphabet (i/t/a) made by the Reading Research Unit of London University are reported. The British research showed conclusively that traditional orthography (TO) is a major handicap for teachers and students of reading. Students taught with i/t/a made…