Literature-Based Reading Programs

by Vito Perrone

Literature-based reading programs, often called "whole language programs," take an approach to reading different from the basal program. In a literature-based program, children read books by identified authors -- books such as Eric Carle's The Hungry Caterpillar and Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit. A classroom using this approach to reading will have many books of all kinds, on a variety of topics, and at many levels of complexity. Some will be easy to read, with pictures telling most of the story, and others will be more difficult. The children make choices about which books they read. A growing number of teachers believe that literature-based reading programs are not only more appropriate developmentally than skill-based basal reading programs but make the children more effective as readers and writers.

Reprinted from the series 101 Educational Conversations by Vito Perrone, published by Chelsea House Publishers.
Copyright 1994 by Chelsea House Publishers, a division of Main Line Book Co. All rights reserved.

Add a Comment (0)

More on: Reading and Language Arts Skill-Builders for Grades 2-6

click here

Halloween Activities
From terrifying treats to bewitching decorations and ghoulish games, our Halloween Activities slideshow is full of freaky family fun! Sponsored by Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa.

Kids and Whole Grains
Are you stumped when it comes to getting your kids to eat whole grains? Or do you have some of your own tips to share? Join in on our discussion!

Create Your Own Jack-O'-Lantern
We can help! Use our fun Jack-O'-Lantern Creator tool to make your very own spooky or silly jack-o'-lantern design. Print it out as a guide to carve the perfect Halloween pumpkin, or just let the little ones color it in. Sponsored by Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa. Watch the trailer here.

Find Balance in Your Kids' Diet
The Balanced Meal Planner is a fun interactive tool that can help you plan a healthy, balanced diet for your family, based on the USDA's Food Guide Pyramid. Sponsored by Smucker's, home of more tasty ideas for kids.

Tired of the Breakfast Wars?
Set a truce with Apple Cinnamon Cheerios®, Fruity Cheerios®, Yogurt Burst Cheerios®, and Frosted Cheerios®. Four naturally sweetened flavors both parents and kids will love. Try one now with a $1 coupon.

Show Your Kids the Power of Voting
Help your kids understand the importance of the presidential-election process by giving them the chance to cast their very own vote in the 2008 race! Encourage your child's school to get involved in the National Student/Parent Mock Election on October 30, 2008.