Although printed materials have taken over a good part of the communicative functions of language, and although book club sales show that young people read widely and frequently, still there is much to be said for the place of oral language in society. Three media which bring oral language to the young are radio, television, and record players. Teachers should plan oral language experiences utilizing these media, which have such tremendous influence on young people, rather than forcing a dichotomy between the kinds of language met in school and in other places. The acceptance by teachers of dialect, modes of expression, and particular vocabulary will put students at ease with school materials, making enjoyment of them much more likely and creating motivation toward further acquaintance with books and reading. References are included. (MS)