Major Milestone in History with Regard to Reading

  • "Why Johnny Can't Read" by Flesch, Rudolf was published

    This book helped to turn the attention to phonics instruction from the while-word method.
  • "The Cat in the Hat" by Dr. Seuss was published

    This book helped to revolutionalize the way American children learned to read (pbs.org).
    Reference: http://www.pbs.org/parents/catinthehat/about_prog_about_seuss.html
  • Theodore Clymer's content analysis "The utility of phonics generalizations in the primary grades."

    Clymer's analysis helped to increase the use of phonics instruction.
    Reference: Clymer, Theodore (1963/1996). The utility of phonic generalizations in the primary grades. The Reading Teacher, 16, 252-258.
  • Elementary and Secondary Education Act

    Federal education bill, one feature rovided generous support for public libraries which helped to increase production of child's books.
  • "Sesame Street " debuted on PBS

    This program would help teach generations of children the alphabet and how to count.
  • National Right-to-Read Program

    Federally funded program that increased the interest in reading instruction, but was not able to eliminate reading problems in the U.S.
  • "The Electric Company" debuted on PBS

    A federally funded television show to help promote reading growth amoung children.
  • "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?" by Bill Martin Jr. and art by Eric Carle

    Helped to spark the realization that certain kinds of repetative experience with books can help children with early reading.
  • "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling published in the U.S.

    This children's book had a remarkable commercial success, helping to lead the way for an increase in interest and production of books for young adults.
  • "No Child Left Behind Act of 2001"

    U.S. legislation signed by President Bush that was a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. NCLB ensured accountability, flexibility, and federal funding for education.
    Reference: http://www2.ed.gov/nclb/overview/intro/guide/guide_pg12.html#history