One factor in learning to read is the nature of the script that is used. In order to understand the particular nature of the English alphabetic script and the specific problems that might arise from it, the author asks the following questions: Is it any easier to learn to read through an ideographic, syllabic, or alphabetic writing system? Is there less incidence of reading failure with some “ideal” orthography? Has any particular written language shown itself to be less difficult for beginning reading instruction, especially for particular reading and learning disabled children? The linguistic nature of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean are examined in relation to differences in information processing and cultural factors related to reading disability.
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