Based on the premise that print, oral, and media literacy are crucial in today's complex world, this handbook outlines a model for communication arts curricula that will lead to the production of literate, competent users of communication arts processes. The main purpose of the handbook is to serve as a tool for teachers and curriculum writers in Missouri to use in "bridging the gap" between the "Show-Me" Standards (73 standards defining what students should know and be able to do by the time they graduate from Missouri's public high schools) and specific local curricula. The handbook begins with a preface, a list of the "Show-Me" Standards, and an overview of communication arts education (presenting a rationale for the study of communication arts, the purpose for the framework, organization of the framework, and an organizational roadmap). It then presents the major organizing strands of the framework: (1) gather, analyze, and apply information and ideas; (2) communicate effectively within and beyond the classroom; (3) recognize and solve problems; and (4) make decisions and act as responsible members of society. The handbook then discusses issues and practices in the teaching of the communication arts--emergent literacy, print literacy, oral literacy, media literacy, language and culture, communication arts in the content areas, technology and the communication arts, and assessment in the communication arts. Contains a 35-item annotated list of suggested reading. Appendixes contain examples of quality student work; suggested products and performances; sample reading lists; reference list of sources of book lists; and speaking, listening, and media literacy standards. (RS)