The result of a year of research and development in the classroom, the language arts activities presented in this handbook are designed for use with microcomputers in elementary and junior high classrooms. The first chapter reviews the current uses of microcomputers in the classroom and identifies the problems associated with the prevailing "drill and practice" approach. The second chapter presents a framework that treats the microcomputer as a tool to assist teachers while emphasizing a holistic approach to instruction and the interactive capabilities of microcomputers. Chapter 3 discusses the role of the teacher in computer software development and the use of computers in the writing process. Chapters 4 through 8 present five sets of computer activities using examples of actual software available for the Apple II. Alternate software and most popular computers can be employed in the activities and are suggested throughout the text. (A list of software and source books for teachers, a glossary, and blackline masters of task cards, posters and overhead projector slides are included.) (RS)