Final answer:
To effectively teach reading to the majority of English-speaking students, emphasis should be on the alphabet principle and phonics, acknowledging the value of orthographic knowledge, phrase structures, and the whole-language approach, while also embracing linguistic diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the teaching of reading is to be successful for the largest number of English-speaking students, it should include an emphasis on the alphabet principle and phonics. This approach provides a foundation for understanding how letters and sounds form words. Teaching reading effectively also involves incorporating an understanding of orthographic rules, phrase structures, and attention to language structures such as grammar and punctuation. Additionally, the whole-language approach, which integrates reading with real-life communication, can be beneficial. However, it is essential to recognize linguistic diversity and encourage students to use their unique dialects and language patterns, thus fostering an inclusive learning environment that respects and builds upon the linguistic backgrounds of all students.