Talking Points, Vol. 11, No. 1, November 1999

Table of Contents

Issue Theme: Literacy at Any Age

• I just Want to Teach. Why Should I Get Involved in this Political Stuff?

  Kathleen Mason

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  Abstract: Kathleen tells her story after returning from a year sabbatical.

  Keywords: Elementary, School-Community Relation

• Mean Times for Teachers and Learners in California

  Kenneth S. Goodman

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  Abstract: This statement was distributed at the IRA conference in San Diego in May 1999 by those wearing T-shirts which said, “Banned in California. Freedom to Learn; Freedom to Teach; Social Justice.” The content is specific to California, but many states are passing similar laws, and the National Reading Excellence Act is moving into an ugly enforcement phase.

  Keywords: Elementary, School-Community Relation

• Roadblocks to School Change: An Editorial Comment

  Robert Wortman

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  Abstract: Every organization—social, political, and professional—is clamoring for school reform. No one is happy with schools in their present state (pun intended), and, of course, no one can agree on how schooling should improve. If only they would ask my advice. . .

  Keywords: Elementary, School-Community Relation

• Inclusive Education and Whole Language: Commonalities

  Karen M. Feathers, Michael Peterson, and Kim Beloin

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  Abstract: Serves as a follow up to "Moving toward Inclusive Education: Two Stories" which appeared in the last issue of this journal. Demonstrates, in chart form, the commonalities between inclusive education and whole language. Includes a bibliography of readings in inclusive education and whole language.

  Keywords: Elementary, Diversity, Literacy, Reading

• California's Literacy Agenda: A Call for Action

  Mary Ann Nickel and Paul Crowley

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  Abstract: Argues that holistic, transactional views of the reading process have been uprooted and replaced with what has been labeled "balanced" instruction. Presents a brief outline of the California requirements for instruction incorporating phonics. Concludes by encouraging whole language teachers to stand together because their beliefs are strong, theoretically rooted and grounded in their best practices.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, College, Literacy, Standards, Reading

• Reading by Listening

  Sharon M. Haley

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  Abstract: Describes "Reading by Listening," a program developed for students in an Adult Basic Education Program at Cape Fear Community College designed to give students the opportunity to read quality literature. Presents two students' experiences with the program, focusing on how their strategies and attitudes changed over the course of the year.

  Keywords: Elementary, Literacy, Reading

• Eric's Journey

  Walter Crandall

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  Abstract: Describes one student's writing project and how it develops in a writing program. Notes that his story focuses on the Holocaust and was inspired by reading over 15 books on the topic.

  Keywords: Elementary, Diversity, Literature, Pedagogy

• At Long Last-Literacy

  Justin Peery

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  Abstract: Discusses the author's literacy experiences, negative and positive, from elementary through high school. Explains that now he is a secondary education major with a concentration in English. Concludes that he wants his students to know that even if reading instruction does not make sense to them, it is not too late to learn to enjoy reading.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, College, Professional Development, Reading

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