BASAL READER

APPROACH

The basal reading approach is a method of teaching reading to children. The program's name comes from the word "base" or "basic." It involves using a series of books, or readers, tailored to a specific reading level.

Basal readers are typically highly organized. Stories are chosen to illustrate and develop specific skills, which are taught in a strict pre-determined sequence.

GOAL: To learn different reading skills systematically.

CHARACTERISTICS:1. Subskills of each major skill vary in difficulty and complexity and are introduced to the student in a logical, prescribed order.

2. These subskills are integrated into an instructional program so that the student can interrelate them.

3. Basal series are generally from grades 1 to 6 (although some have pregrade 1). At every level, there are teachers manuals, workbooks, and testing materials to accompany the basal text. Other materials such as supplementary readers, charts and films may be available.

4. The program identifies and introduces a controlled vocabulary of new words in isolation and in context.

5. Subsequent activities involve further skills development: word recognition, comprehension, and study skills.

6. Enrichment activities are designed to relate the topic of the lesson to the visual arts, music, dance, or literature.

7. Beginning reading methods may differ among

the series:

a. code-emphasis programs – emphasis on

decoding skills, specifically phonics.

b. meaning-emphasis programs – emphasis on

reading for meaning or comprehension.

Reported by: Mary Jane Sakay&

Divine Heidi G. Cabiguin

BSE – Major in English

Irregular Students