Evaluating the Whole Language Approach to Language Arts

Abstract
Whole language is an approach to teaching written language that focuses on the oral language experiences of the child, and the communication of meaning through print, rather than emphasizing the teaching of reading skills such as word recognition, sound symbol associations, or sound blending. This paper provides a critical analysis of the whole language approach, describing both its strengths and weaknesses. An integrated instructional approach which balances meaning and exposure to literature with skills instruction and practice is recommended.

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