Literacy As Snake Oil

by Larson, Joanne

• ISBN13: 9780820450216
• ISBN10: 0820450219
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-02-01
• Publisher: Peter Lang Pub Inc

Summary

This edited collection examines the recent trend toward quick-fix literacy programs in which entrepreneurs peddle packaged literacies that purport to resolve the pressure to raise achievement scores. Current accountability and standardization movements that feed the market for packaged literacies make this a timely book for university researchers, classroom teachers, and school or district administrators. The discourse surrounding the teaching and learning of literacy has been appropriated by the conservative right in such a way as to block not only a critique of the so-called literacy crisis, but also attempts to construct more meaningful solutions. Literacy as Snake Oil critically examines the consequences of packaged literacy on educational practice.

Table of Contents

Series Foreword
Acknowledgments
In Sheep's Clothing: Literacy for Sale	p. 1
Reading, Language Abilities, and Semiotic Resources: Beyond Limited Perspectives on Reading	p. 7
Reading Research and Skills-Emphasis Instruction: Forging "Facts" to Fit an Explanation	p. 27
Literacy Packages in Practice: Constructing Academic Disadvantage	p. 45
Success Guaranteed Literacy Programs: I Don't Buy It!	p. 71
Fattening Frogs for Snakes: Virtues for Sale	p. 89
Smoke and Mirrors: Language Policy and Educational Reform	p. 111
Look, the Emperor Has No Clothes: An Educator's Guide to Choosing Cost-Effective Literacy Programs	p. 123
List of Contributors	p. 143
Index	p. 147
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