The Mid Century Vault

Currently Playing: 056 Why Everyone Remembers Dick and Jane (And Why They Vanished)

Do you remember the smell of fresh mimeograph ink and the smooth feel of a Formica desk? Step back into the 1962 classroom with Philip Mershon as we unlock The Mid-Century Vault to visit three of the most famous children in American history: Dick, Jane, and Sally. In this episode, we explore the rise and fall of the Scott Foresman "Dick and Jane" empire. From the "Look-Say" method that taught 80% of a generation to read, to the "Reading Wars" that eventually ended their reign, we look at the primary-colored world where the grass was always green and the pets always jumped. In this video, we cover: The origin of the "Look-Say" method (Whole Language vs. Phonics). The 1965 introduction of Mike and the push for representation in textbooks. The legendary illustrators who defined the mid-century aesthetic. Why "Why Johnny Can’t Read" changed American schools forever. Are you a "Dick and Jane" kid? Share your favorite classroom memories in the comments below! Please like this video and consider subscribing to the channel, it helps so much! #DickandJanebooks #vintageschoolbooks #nostalgia