Talking Points, Vol. 13, No. 2, May 2002

Table of Contents

Issue Theme: Marketing Literacy

• Don’t Steal the Struggle! The Commercialization of Literacy and Impact on Teachers

  Kathy Hibbert

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  Abstract: According to Hibbert, "[i]ncreasingly, it seems, the predominance of market ideology is seeping into education (Engel, 2000), and literacy is no exception."

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Administration, Assessment, Literacy, Pedagogy, Professional Development

• We Need an Education Rights Movement

  Carole Edelsky

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  Abstract: This speech was delivered at the 2001 Whole Language Umbrella Conference in Chicago, Illinois.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Administration, Assessment, Literacy, Pedagogy, Professional Development

• The NRP Comparison of Whole Language and Phonics: Ignoring the Crucial Variable in Reading

  Stephen Krashen

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  Abstract: In this article, Krashen examines the results of the NRP’s comparison of skills-based and whole language approaches through the lens of reading comprehension. His findings reveal that even when one accepts the restrictions on what is acceptable research imposed by the panel, when one considers the actual amount of reading done by children and examines the results for tests of reading comprehension, the research does not show that skills-based methods are superior.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Assessment, Literacy, Pedagogy, Research, Reading

• New Insights: Eye Fixations and the Reading Process

  Peter Duckett

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  Abstract: New computer technology offers a tool for following the path and focus of the eyes during reading. Reading educator and researcher Peter Duckett reveals the complexity of what goes on as readers read.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Assessment, Research, Technology, Reading

• Interview with Patrick Shannon

  Peggy Albers

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  Abstract: Pat Shannon is Professor of Education at Penn State University. He writes widely on the politics of literacy and, in particular, the marketing of literacy. Peggy Albers talked with him in November 2001 about his interpretation of how literacy is marketed in schools today.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Reading

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