Argument for a Balanced Approach

It can be argued that the most effective method of learning combines the strengths of skills emphasis and learning emphasis models

Pros/Cons: Skills Emphasis

• Chall and Adams acknowledged limitations to skills emphasis approach
• Skills emphasis methods build good word recognition with their focus on phonemes, letter-sound relationships, and letter blends
• Knowledge of decoding skills supports comprehension, but does not necessarily lead to proficiency

Pros/Cons: Skills Emphasis

• The National Reading Panel found that skills emphasis approach was effective in early grades, but less so in later grades
• Adams noted that the nature of skills emphasis learning could lead to disinterest

Pros/Cons: Meaning Emphasis

• Promotes desire to read because what is read makes sense and is of interest
• Requires sufficient time in daily schedule for proficiency
• Requires teacher organization and skill to coordinate between students and their individual needs

Pros/Cons: Meaning Emphasis

• Encourages the full use of reader knowledge to interpret text, developing critical thinking skills and extensive vocabulary
• Stahl & Miller and Knapp found modestly better outcomes
• Dahl & Freppon concluded greater improvement in overall reading skills

The National Research Council found that neither approach completely addressed the factors interfering with early literacy proficiency

Roadblocks to Reading Proficiency

• Problems understanding alphabetic principle
• Failure to develop verbal knowledge necessary for comprehension
• Lack of motivation to read

Hybrid System

• Strengths in phonemic segmentation and phonics from skills emphasis models
• Strengths in vocabulary, comprehension, and motivation from meaning emphasis models
• High-quality lessons
• Positive classroom environment
• Sufficient time allocated with few interuptions