Some Needed Research Regarding the Language and Reading Instructional Problems of Spanish Speaking Children.

Three major areas of needed research in language and reading development for children of Spanish-speaking backgrounds are presented in a general overview. The first area of need is that of normative and descriptive studies of prelearning processes. This includes analyses of language base and home language behavior and is aimed at a more precise description of bilingual style. The second area of need is that of compensatory educational programs. These should be based on research and experimentation designed to determine language characteristics and needs. The third area of need is that of research in curriculum and materials modifications. Present curricula should be researched and evaluated, and new and innovative curricula should be designed which reflect research findings. An extensive bibliography of material reviewed is included. (MD)