Conceptualizations of the reading process and the nature of comprehension are discussed in relation to the Southwest Regional Laboratory (SWRL) Beginning Reading Program. A method of syntactic analysis is proposed to help identify segments of meaning in reading materials. Components for comprehension assessment and instruction based on auch an analysis are suggested. An example of the analysis is presented for the first five stories in the SWRL Beginning Reading Program. Aspects of the language in the stories which can be selected for assessment or instruction are discussed. (Author)