Instructional materials are essential tools in the English language arts classroom. They allow students to interact with words, images, and ideas in ways that develop their abilities in multiple literacies such as reading, listening, viewing, thinking, speaking, writing, and technology. Because selection policies should reflect local interests and…

Discusses the strengths and shortcomings of "A Foundation for Implementation," a document written by early childhood teachers from Manitoba, Canada, to guide literacy and language arts instruction. Notes the importance of teacher empowerment in creating the curriculum and of developmentally appropriate practices as a foundation. (JPB)