Six conceptions prevail about the language experience approach (LEA) although research and practical experience have proven them false. (1) "LEA does not teach basic skills." If basic skills are defined as communication competence, LEA teaches basic communication skills as well as the mechanics of communication. (2) "A language experience classroom is undisciplined, instruction is poorly organized, and learning is by chance." The language experience classroom teaches children to trust themselves to monitor their own behavior, to be responsible for themselves, and to be self-disciplined. The classroom is highly organized because it forces the teacher to organize and structure, to think about what he or she is doing, and why. (3) "Language experience is for primary grade students only." Language experience is not a static approach. It stimulates a perceptual growth and is suitable for all ages. (4) "Language experience limits the learning of language arts and reading skills." Language experience stimulates the growth of language arts and reading skills through practical and purposeful use. (5) "LEA contributes to poor reading habits." Language experience teaches children how to master reading as a process, and helps create independent, autonomous readers. (6) "Language experience can only be taught by experienced teachers." While this approach is not for every teacher, it is not limited to experienced teachers. (HTH)