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Originating in England in the mid 1400’s the hornbook is often referred to as the first reading “textbook”. “The typical hornbook consisted of a sheet of paper about 3 by 4 inches in size, fastened on a thin paddle shaped board.” (Smith, 2002, p. 6). A translucent sheet of horn was used to cover and protect the paper. The paper in these “books” could be slid out and replaced with additional text for study. Over the years, hornbooks were made from a wide variety of materials including wood, s
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This time period of reading instruction maintained a strong focus on religion. The early settlers of our country were deeply religious and found religious materials to be the most important materials for a child to learn.
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The hornbook is often referred to as the first reading “textbook” yet is wasn't a book at all. “The typical hornbook consisted of a sheet of paper about 3 by 4 inches in size, fastened on a thin paddle shaped board.” (Smith, 2002, p. 6). A translucent sheet of horn was used to cover and protect the paper. The paper in these "books" could be slid out and replaced with additional text for study.
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While originally printed in England, in 1680, a 1685 edition of this book was printed in Boston, thus making it the first reading textbook to be printed in the America.
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During this time period, the Bible and the Psalter (a book of Psalms) were used to teach spelling, reading, and writing. It is important to note that during this time period, most reading materials used for instruction were imported from England. (Smithe, 2002, p. 13)
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The New England Primer was the first to be written and designed for the American colonies. Interestingly, the first edition of this book is thought to have been printed in England.
The book "swept into wide popularity with Americans and was considered the standard textbook for reading instruction throughout the colonial period." (Smith, 2002, p 17) -
Spellers were added to the reading curriculum and not only taught spelling, but also taught reading, religion, and morals.The first spellers were imported from England. "A New Guide to the English Tongue, was first reprinted in America by Benjamin Franklin in 1747."(Smith, 2002, p. 25)
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