Roots of the Whole-Language Movement

This article gives a history of the whole-language movement. It looks back to the sixteenth century for an early use of the term whole language. Then, beginning with John Dewey, I explore major influences from the fields of philosophy, psychology, linguistics, and education on the development of whole language. I discuss earlier educational movements in the United States, such as language experience, individualized reading, and the integrated curriculum, and their influence on whole language. I also sketch influences from England, such as language across the curriculum and the British Infant School, and the holistic educational influences from New Zealand. I conclude that science and humanism will continue to affect holistic views of educational theory and practice.