I teach 11th grade ELA (formerly American Literature) and this is quite true. My students are functioning illiterates. They were taught to read using a Title I program called Success for All (SFA). The elementary teachers love it because it is completely scripted. They need only run copies and maintain order. Teachers don’t even really have to interact with the kids since all of the work is done in groups.
Ok
What does ELA stand for?
Will I wince?
What they are learning from each other is where to find funny videos of people falling off their skateboards.
Maybe you could give me a few more details about your “functional illiterates.”
What sort of tasks can they typically do without a problem?
They’ve been in school 10 or 11 years when you get them. This is way after elementary school. What were the schools and teachers doing with them when they were in the fifth, sixth, and seventh grades?
When the kids reach you, do they know any phonics. Can they sound out words even if slowly?
Success for All, this is so typically wonderful in what it claims. But I’ve heard lots of bad things about it. Is it basically a sight word program?
You know, the idea that people can learn to read in groups is a fascinating one. Each brain has to do some work, or nothing is going to advance. Probably in practice it’s just another ruthless sophistry.
Any info is welcome.
Do students still have to submit book reports of books read?