Reading Instruction in America

Book excerpt: The diversity of student populations in the United States presents educators with many challenges. To provide effective reading instruction for the individual student, teachers must understand the enormous variety of reading methods and materials that exist and make independent decisions based on their students' particular needs. Research indicates that educators are often influenced by reading instruction fads that quickly fade, making it more challenging to develop a repertoire of teaching strategies in which a teacher may have confidence. This book examines a variety of reading methods used in American schools from the 19th to the 21st century, and the literature promoting or critiquing them, to help teachers become informed decision makers and better meet the needs of students.