Intended for teachers, this book on beginning literacy examines questions and solutions concerning literacy theories and practices. Chapter 1, "An Open Approach to Literacy," explores some assumptions about literacy and characteristics of a model for language learning. Chapter 2 presents historical viewpoints and current practices, chapter 3 discusses literacy learning before school, and chapter 4 describes the shared-book experience. Chapter 5 explores refining the developmental model of language learning, while chapter 6 deals with teaching basic strategies to children. Chapter 7 discusses integrating teaching approaches within the school, chapter 8 deals with creativity in the literacy undertaking, and chapter 9 examines developmental learning and diagnostic teaching. Chapter 10, "A New Conservatism," considers three matters interwoven in the notion of schooling: professionalism, institutional priorities, and public attitudes. Each section moves from hypothesis, through theory and testing to classroom implications and suggestions for teaching and is drawn from teaching and research done in New Zealand. Illustrations and diagrams amplify the test. Notes for each chapter are appended. References to children's books and instructional materials are included, as well as a name index and a subject index. (EL)