Children learn best when they read from simplified basal readers that tightly control vocabulary and sentence structure. For primary children such textbooks are often organized around phonic patterns. Writing instructions begins with handwriting and copying to master the basic skills. Punctuation is learned through workbook and ditto sheet exercises. Children who cannot be made to work on skill sheets may be diagnosed as behavior problems.
Children choose their own reading material much of the time.
Skills are acquired naturally in the context of meaningful oral interaction and literacy events. Objects and learning centers in primary classrooms frequently have labels. Sets of directions, including information on storing materials, are written on charts or activity cards to guide children's engagement with materials. Teachers assemble classroom libraries of trade books representing unabridged, unsimplified literature. Children have daily opportunities for uninterrupted reading.