DT> that there were attempts a number of years ago by IBM to introduce a 
 DT> phonetic spelling program called "Writing to Read" that included a 
 DT> invented spelling curriculum.  Riggs institute has 
 DT> called this invented 
 DT> spelling program a "colossal failure."  I have 
 DT> written directly to the 
 DT> Riggs institute for clarification...  I am assuming 
 DT> they are referring 
 DT> to programs like IBM's Writing to Read or Action Reading which is 
 DT> currently on the market and has its own phonics 
 DT> codes.  Essentially both
 DT> these programs have re-invented spelling and teach 
 DT> that re-invention to 
 DT> students.  These programs, or any programs like them, are NOT the 
 DT> approximated spellings to which I have been 
When I think of invented spellings-yes I do think of the IBM program which 
was heavily used in our district for quite a few years. Unfortunately, IBM 
had the position that children would automatically learn to spell from being 
exposed to "correct spelling". This is the "osmosis theory" of spelling that 
somehow infiltrated the regular program. So in very few instances were 
students ever expected to correct spelling or to produce a finished document 
(by finished, I mean to acceptable standards for publication for parents and 
the public).  So, one learning theory has merged into WL here, one that you 
apparently don't support. The IBM program did not make our kids readers, only 
reading will make students readers. (Smith)
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