Among the papers presented at the 15th Annual Convention of the International Reading Association were the 16 included in this volume. The papers, all dealing with relationships between language and linguistics and reading, reflect both a wide range of opinion on the subject and considerable variety of focus. The six research reports are all concerned with reading achievement, but under varying conditions. Among these are a study of variations in oral reading styles of fourth-grade nonstandard English speakers, and another of variations in reading achievement among subjects at nine grade levels. Theoretical discussions of language development as related to reading comprise the remaining papers. These include reviews of pertinent research and present ideas based on this research. Among the factors discussed are the development of language concepts, influences of sex on language development, and means of relating instruction to children's language abilities. Tables and references follow individual papers. (This document previously announced as ED 049 898.) (MS)