"Phonics is Not Enough to Improve Reading Skills of Young Readers" (AScribe, 02/09/09)

Reading programs focused on changing daily teaching practices do more to improve children's reading skills than programs focused on textbooks and technology, according to a comprehensive research review by the Johns Hopkins University School of Education's Center for Research and Reform in Education. Simply using books with a stronger emphasis on phonics was not enough to improve reading.

"Early phonics success 'may wane' " (BBC, 01/26/09)

Initial success in improving the way young children are taught to read may peter out if teachers' commitment wanes, a government adviser has warned.