TURN-ONS AND TURN-OFFS IN CURRENT HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASES : Excellent Good Fair Poor : VIDEOCASSETTES

“Have Fun Learning to Read (Phrases).” Studio 203. $29.95. Television’s ability to teach children to read is dubious, but here’s a chance to put it to the test. The first of a projected series for new readers, this 15-minute tape repeats a handful of phrases over and over, then uses them in a story. Honorable intentions notwithstanding, it’s hard to fathom why anyone would want to spend this much money so their children could learn to read “in the box,” “through the door” and “on the table” when, for the same investment, they could purchase half-a-dozen quality books. Information: (213) 221-7483.