NCJ Number
85133
Date Published
1981
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This Michigan inmate reading program, which focuses on vocabulary, comprehension, and efficiency, has been found highly motivating for inmates, successful in its standardized evaluations, and worthy to be used as a model for inmate readings programs throughout the State.
Abstract
After an initial interview that includes a visual and hearing examination as indicated, the inmate is given the placement test for 'The Kilty List of 5,000 Words.' This test presents the seven most frequently misidentified words in each of the first seven levels and the ten most frequently misidentified words in each of the levels eight through sixteen. Patterns of difficulty are then identified for each inmate, and mini-lessons are given the inmate to help with the specific problems identified. Mastery at each level of vocabulary enables the student to proceed to the next level of difficulty. Mastery consists of identification, definitions, and a smooth and reasonably rapid delivery. When a student has reached vocabulary words of at least fourth grade difficulty and frequency, he/she is given content reading material with comprehension questions 1 year below the vocabulary placement. Efficiency exercises with the controlled reader, which the inmates view as speed reading, are 2 years below the vocabulary level. It is beneficial to have each hour of instruction balanced among the approaches. Pre and posttest results of standardized achievement tests over the past 3 years have shown an average increase in vocabulary developing and comprehension of 3 months growth for each month in the program when the inmates admitted to the program were at least 1 1/2 years below grade placement. Six bibliographic entries are provided.