Research and the National Literacy Strategy

This paper outlines the research evidence underpinning the National Literac y Strategy that was implemented in England in 1998. The paper summarises wh at the Strategy comprises and identifies several 'predisposing' influences. These were the international data on primary school pupils' reading perfor mance, school effectiveness research and the findings from literacy program mes with underachieving pupils in the USA and Australia. School inspections provided additional evidence. The early success of the National Literacy P roject provided a 'precipitating' influence, as it reflected much of what w as implied in the other sources of research evidence. The main aspects of t he National Literacy Strategy are discussed and the relevant research findi ngs are indicated. The broadly complementary nature of these sources is not ed and the paper concludes by suggesting that the Strategy offers the promi se of significantly raising standards and of improving the life-chances of thousands of children.