This book considers the complex subject of language development and instruction for learners with special needs. The primary purpose of the book is to examine language and its components and to suggest instructional strategies for conquering language difficulties. Some special features of the book are strong core chapters which cover key background information necessary for understanding language instruction; comprehensive discussion of the various language arts domains; separate chapters on verbal and nonverbal communication; and chapters devoted to instruction for adolescents and cultural diversity issues. Chapters in the book are: (1) The Development of Language; (2) Disabilities in Language Functioning; (3) Cultural Diversity and Language Differences; (4) Principles of Assessment and Instruction (Edward A. Polloway and Loretta C. Jones-Wilson); (5) Initial Language Skills: Verbal (Nikki L. Murdick); (6) Initial Language Skills: Nonverbal (Nikki L. Murdick); (7) Oral Language Skills; (8) Reading: Nature and Assessment; (9) Reading: Instruction; (10) Handwriting Instruction; (11) Spelling Instruction (Mary Beirne-Smith and Beverly H. Thompson); (12) Written Expression; and (13) Adolescents and Language Disabilities. (NKA)