Argues that explicit instruction is not a characteristic of teaching practices as much as an aspect of the negotiated space between teaching and learning. Describes how three teaching strategies that shift focus from teachers' explicit telling to learners' explicit thinking (demonstration, assisted performance, and reflective description) make…

Reviews research on (1) reader response theories; (2) innovative approaches to literature-based reading instruction; and (3) literary experiences and literary analysis presentations. Discusses teachers' concerns and success as they implement literature-based programs. Discusses challenges facing the literature-based reading revolution. (RS)

Discusses the contrast between traditional approaches to language arts instruction for special needs children and process-centered, communication-based approaches. Provides examples of research on process-centered, communication-based instruction for special needs children. Addresses implications suggested by this research. (RS)