NPR's Claudio Sanchez reports that many while politicians got caught up in the debate over "whole language" reading instruction, many teachers have begun searching for a middle way that adds classic "phonics" instruction. "Whole language" stresses using good literature to get kids interested in reading, while phonics has emphasized basic reading skills--the ability to sound out words--and for years, supporters of the two systems have argued over which is more effective. Now, states like California, which was heavily invested whole language, are returning to phonics, but many educators are saying the best way is to combine the two approaches.
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