A course of study to enhance the effectiveness of the traditional third grade reader and workpack as instructional tools was designed for this practicum. The goal was to create a familiarity with the purpose and function of varied print media available within the community, thereby creating a foundation upon which the students (30 third graders) could base their understanding of the settings, themes, and experiences of the traditional third grade reader. The program utilized varied print media and speakers from the students' school and community environment. Classroom cooperative learning centers were established, and a number of group activities and individual assignments were required. Family involvement was encouraged through the broad scope of interactive homework assignments. The program resulted in a heightened sense of achievement, enthusiasm and confidence. The children developed the means of visualizing the printed word. A connection of verbal interaction was developed between school and home. A collaborative setting generated the process of bringing meaning to the printed word. This group practice allowed students to transfer their verbal visualization strategies to the stories of the traditional third grade reader. The children demonstrated meaningful gains in their abilities to describe the purposes and functions of varied print media. (One table of data is included and 43 references are attached.) (Author/PRA)