Language arts programs are sometimes aimless because elementary teachers are not quite sure what is meant by the term "language arts." Often the typical language arts offering lacks a maintenance program which can reinforce learning and correct misinformation. Or, the pupils draw back when usage or mechanics are mentioned because they have previously experienced long sessions of dull practice. Recognition of these factors spurred the development of a Daily Oral Usage program which basically involves writing two incorrect sentences on the board each day. First the incorrect sentences are read by the children so that they can listen for errors. Next they search for errors in punctuation, letter format, verb usage, capitalization, and so on. Pupils then volunteer the needed corrections, identifying the type of error in each case and explaining the need for correction. Finally, the class rereads the corrected sentence to hear the right version. The whole procedure takes a maximum of ten minutes each day. Within this context, the teacher can realize the need for some arbitrary placement of skills. (HOD)