Designed for teachers, the book discusses characteristics of retardation and suggests teaching strategies for retarded children in regular classes. Statistics and definitions of the levels of retardation are described, environmental influences are summarized, and diagnostic factors are reviewed. Discussed are physical, intellectual, and psychological characteristics of the retarded. It is explained that basic skills, social adjustment and occupational competence are the goals of education for the educable retarded. Reviewed is criticism of special class placement, and suggested are instructional methods (such as individualized work centers) for use with retarded children in regular classes. Possible problems for the teacher are seen to include poor student motivation and lack of participation in class. Described are aspects of program content, structure, and evaluation for the educable retarded child in regular elementary school classes. (CL)