Publisher's Synopsis
Principles underlying a rational and effective method of teaching reading have been here well stated by an expert in the science of education. This book is really a manual for teachers, designed to meet their problems and children's needs. Quotations from literary authorities justify the position that the ultimate end of reading should result in a living appreciation of good literature, while in gaining this end whatever wastes time and energy should be avoided.
Paper of suitable finish, type of proper size, short lines are important, since they reduce eyestrain to a minimum. The many methods advanced for teaching reading prove the subject difficult and still unsettled. These have been grouped as synthetic and analytic methods and their strong and weak points have been noted in this attempt to formulate a standard for judging any reading method.
One chapter begins with the subject of literary reading in primers and ends with a fine analysis of the ideas that should govern reading to children and telling stories to children. Tho the drawbacks of a rigidly phonetic method loom large, yet clear articulation, correct enunciation, power of attacking new words is greatly helped by sensible, well-graded drill in phonics. This drill, however, should be sharp, but subordinate to the main end - reading. In the intermediate grades, reading is often unsatisfactory, so more than ordinary importance has been laid upon aims to be achieved and preparation of teacher. Several model lessons are offered. Ways of teaching a masterpiece forms the subject of the final chapter.
The classified bibliography for reading will prove helpful.
-The American School Board Journal, Vol. 50 [1915]
