Designed to help vocational teachers aid students in reading vocational education class materials, this handbook contains six sections of background information and suggested activities geared to various aspects of reading and a section of ideas for use in improving the reading skills of vocational students. While most of the examples in the handbook were derived from industrial mechanics classes, they can be used in any vocational class. The basic reading skills required in vocational programs are listed. Discussed next are using standardized test scores, constructing informal reading inventories (IRIs), choosing reading passages and developing questions, and giving and scoring an IRI. Guidelines are given for assessing the reading level of textbooks. Described next are various methods for teaching vocabulary, including using vocabulary scans, structured overviews, illustrations, glossaries, crossword puzzles, and abbreviations. A guided reading plan overview, instructions for implementing such a plan, and a study guide are presented. Included in a section on study skills are discussions of taking notes; interpreting charts, graphs, and schematics; and using cross references and conversion tables. A holistic approach to learning and whole brain activities are explained. (MN)