[twigs]

Thank you for your post. In fact, you have just given me an idea. I have to write a senior thesis in order to receive my teaching certification in English and I just chose the topic of how the Sapir-Whorf theory has influenced educational theory. [I'm assuming it has; if not, I'll have to change my focus a bit.] I hadn't thought of pursuing the area of whole language instruction, but it might be the direction to go. I'd like to know more about its history and underpinnings. I need to get Gatto's book. I've heard a lot of good things about it.

[Aquinasfan]

I need to get Gatto's book. I've heard a lot of good things about it.

I forgot to mention that the first eight chapters are available to read now on-line. Click on the link above. The chapters dealing with whole language are included in the available chapters.

Another good book for information regarding the origins of whole language is Sam Blumenfeld's "NEA: Trojan Horse in American Education." Gatto's history seems to be more extensive though.

[Aquinasfan]

I just chose the topic of how the Sapir-Whorf theory has influenced educational theory

What's that?