A study described the 1990-91 and 1991-92 Chapter 1 Developer/Demonstration Program, Learning to Read through the Arts (LTRTA), and evaluated the effectiveness of its implementation. The program offers intensive holistic reading and reading-oriented arts instruction to Chapter 1-eligible students, using an interdisciplinary, thematic approach that integrates a total arts program with a total reading and writing program. It provides remedial, developmental, and enrichment activities and skills. In 1990-91, LTRTA operated at five sites in New York City, serving 467 students. In 1991-92, the program took place at 8 school-based sites, and served 867 students, including second graders for the first time--an increase of 86%. Evaluators reviewed program documents, interviewed program staff, observed program sites and classes, and analyzed students' scores on standardized reading tests. They determined that successful programs contain eight critical characteristics. In such programs: (1) a theme provides the focus for the curriculum; (2) art instruction incorporates all modalities and moves from the concrete to the abstract; (3) students are exposed to original art sources; (4) teachers develop materials that meet the needs of the students; (5) reading and writing activities are constantly assessed; (6) team members receive staff development and training; (7) parents are involved in the program; and (8) the program is supported by school administrators. Except for grades three and six in 1991-92, students met all program objectives. Staff members agreed that the program had a very positive impact on students' development academically, artistically, personally, and socially. (Three tables and six figures of data are included. An appendix contains 1990-91 sites program overviews from various program sites.) (SR)