Language is social-children learn in the context of its use. Children are natural learners, and will spontaneously make good learning decisions. Teachers believe kids will succeed. Kids need to own their learning and literacy choices. Time to read, write and tell stories is essential.
Kids learn by trial and error, invention, discovery, intuition.
Curricular decisions are shared. The curriculum is integrated, with an authentic purpose of inquiry. Collaboration is key. Whole language privileges trade books over basals. Teaches reading from parts to whole Keeps language whole 2.