PIRLS 2006 Encyclopedia

PIRLS 2006 Encyclopediachildren’s books with graded readers and also uses the texts children have producedthemselves either independently or in conjunction with books.Use of TechnologyA goal stated in the syllabus for Swedish instruction is to develop the student’s abilityto use computers as an aid and the ability to use different opportunities to obtaininformation. Through the use of technology, students should acquire knowledge of thelanguage and the functions of the media, as well as develop their ability to interpret,critically examine, and evaluate different sources and their contents.The use of technology in beginning reading varies widely, depending on the interestof teachers and the availability of financial resources at each school. However, varioustypes of computer programs are available for all grade levels. At the lower grades, thereare computer programs for training in language awareness, reading, and writing. Thecomputer is used frequently as a writing tool. Students are encouraged from an early ageto seek information on the Internet in working on various assignments. The computeris considered to be a particularly valuable tool in special education for students withreading and writing disabilities.Role of Reading SpecialistsSpecialized reading instruction can be organized in a number of ways, depending onthe reading specialists’ assessment of students’ needs. Specialists may opt for one-ononesessions for a number of hours per week, small-group instruction, or individualassistance within the classroom, depending on resources and personal preferences.Second-language InstructionStudents with a mother tongue other than Swedish have the opportunity to take Swedish asa second language, regardless of their age. The goal is for students to acquire a functionalmastery of the Swedish language comparable to that of students who have Swedish asa mother tongue. Ultimately, students should attain a first-language level in Swedish,since the ability to use Swedish in speech and writing is a prerequisite for students intheir future lives and activities in a Swedish-speaking environment. Through Swedish asa second language, the school should provide students with experiences that help themdevelop their ability to speak and listen and also read and write in different situations.SwedenReading DisabilitiesInstruction for Children with Reading DisabilitiesThe identification of students with reading difficulties has typically been a responsibility ofthe first-grade classroom teacher. In recent years, many municipalities have set up specialeducation teams that offer advice to both teachers and parents, in-service training forteachers, and short-term assistance at local schools. In addition, there are regional centerswith specialists who can diagnose dyslexia and other reading disabilities and give adviceon instructional materials and aids. When dyslexia is diagnosed, the child has the rightto get special assistance, in terms of materials, computer programs, and instruction.410