This literature review contends that whole-language approaches to reading are not well supported by scientific analyses of reading and reading instruction. The paper argues that whole language is not the preferred approach of outstanding primary and special education teachers, who favor instruction which balances decoding instruction and…

This article reviews the literature on the effectiveness of grade retention for high-risk students and discusses the implications of this research for students with learning disabilities. It notes that, despite evidence that retention is ineffective for most students, many educators and laypersons continue to support this practice. (DB)

Five recent studies of methods to prevent reading difficulties are examined. It is estimated that current methods would leave 2 to 6 percent of children with inadequate word reading skills in the first and second grades. Several broad characteristics of these "treatment resisters" are identified and implications are discussed. (Contains…