Using a balanced approach that integrates the language arts and blends teacher and student leadership strategies, this book offers a variety of activities for teaching reading and writing and has a flexible design, making the book adaptable for use at all grade levels. The balanced approach in the book uses a compatible combination of methodologies including the use of authentic texts and direct instruction in phonics, word recognition, and comprehension. Balanced writing strategies in the book include techniques for implementing writing across the curriculum. After an introduction, chapters in the book are (1) Balanced Reading and Writing; (2) Developing Phonemic Awareness and Teaching Phonics; (3) Teaching and Learning Spelling; (4) Emergent Readers and Writers; (5) Patterns for Teaching with Literature; (6) Guided Reading; (7) Helping Students become Strategic Readers; (8) Increasing Vocabulary; (9) Reading and Writing across the Curriculum; (10) Balanced Writing; and (11) Assessment. (Contains 158 references and a 43-item list of literature cited.) (RS)