Continuing an emphasis from earlier editions on such areas as early education and the use of electronic teaching aids as an integral aspect of the classroom program, this book views language arts instruction as based on a comprehensive instruction plan composed of many different teaching strategies and types of materials. This edition of the book recognizes promising developments in elementary education, including writing as a way of learning in all curriculum areas; the increased use of nonfiction trade books in science and social studies; the integration of skill learning in unit and thematic teaching of topics; and the inclusion of special-needs students in the regular classroom. Chapters in the book are: (1) Language and the Language Arts; (2) Teaching the Language Arts; (3) Language Learning and the Young Child; (4) Beginning Language Arts Programs; (5) Using Oral Language; (6) Listening, Thinking, and Learning; (7) Grammar and Language Usage; (8) Learning about Words: Vocabulary, Spelling, and Dictionary Use; (9) Writing by Hand and Machine; (10) The Writing Process; (11) Writing in the Classroom Program; (12) Children and Reading; (13) Reading and Studying; (14) The Library Media Center; (15) Children and Books; and (16) Serving Children with Special Needs. A list of addresses of publishers, distributors, and organizations is attached. (RS)