"When children began the [Funetics] program, very few were able to read or recognize many of the words presented. In contrast, on the post-test, [Funetics] graduates averages about 5 out of 7 correct responses."
"The relative superiority of [Funetics] graduates on both pre-test and post-test was most apparent on the numbers and letters sub-tests. [Funetics] graduates were reaching the ceiling on most of the items contained in these...tests."
"Gain in percentages answering correctly were, in general, higher for [Funetics] graduates than for the Sesame Street sample."
Parent reaction to the program was overwhelmingly favorable. All parents surveyed said their children had begun to read. Approxi-mately 2/3 said their children enjoyed reading. They felt their children's gains in reading skills and enjoyment were the primary benefits of the program.
Although more than 80% of the parents surveyed rated Funetics "very successful" in teaching their children to read, they also felt it was "very helpful" in areas unrelated to reading. Many said the program helped them gain a better understanding of their children and helped them grow closer. They also said the program helped enchance their children's self-discipline and self-expression.
School Use of the Program
During the 1980s, Funetics was successful in teaching thousands of children, both at home and in the following school communities:
Funetics' dramatic impact has been particularly well-documented in the New York City school system. For example, in 1982, PS 30 and PS 149 in Manhattan had averages of 34.8% and 11.8% respectively, of all students reading at grade level. By 1986, these percentages had increased to 82.1% and 56.1%, respectively.
