Theoretical Models and Processes of Reading —
Abstract of

Chapter 48
The Transactional Theory of Reading and Writing

Louise M. Rosenblatt

“A theoretical model by definition is an abstraction, or a generalized pattern devised in order to think about a subject. Hence, it is essential to recognize that...we may generalize about similarities among such events, but we cannot evade the realization that there are actually only innumerable separate transactions between readers and texts.” From this opening, the author goes on to explain her transactional theory, which is rooted in pragmatism and draws on thinking from across numerous humanities disciplines. The chapter describes the role of the reader and the stance from which he or she approaches a text, the ways in which text evokes response, aspects of reader-author interaction, and implications of the theory for the writing process. Implications for practice and research are also described.

Rosenblatt, L.M. (2004). The Transactional Theory of Reading and Writing. In R.B. Ruddell, & N.J. Unrau (Eds.), Theoretical Models and Processes of Reading (pp. 1363-1398). Newark, DE: International Reading Association.