This commitment on the part of teachers is reflected in Vermont's requirement that all new teachers have a Whole Language background. In 1987, New York State mandated teacher attendance at seminars on Whole Language concepts. Many foresee a Whole Language approach replacing reliance on the basal reader especially in California, largely because of the California Reading Initiative.
Language is both personal and social.
It serves thinking and communicating. Speaking, listening, reading, and writing are all learned best in authentic speech and literacy events. Learning how to use language is accomplished as learners use language to learn about the world. This practice has focused on the mastery of reading and writing skills, leaving little time in the school day for reading for pleasure or writing on topics of one's choice. Until children master the skills of phonics, word recognition, spelling, handwriting, etc., they are not ready to do actual reading or writing.