In this long-awaited volume, outstanding scholars in the area of early literacy provide concrete strategies for achieving excellence in literacy instruction. In a teacher-friendly format, Beginning Reading and Writingpresents current, research-based information on the advances and refinements in the areas of emerging literacy and the early stages of formal instruction in reading and writing. Filled with suggestions for classroom practice, this book is a valuable resource for pre-service and inservice teachers of pre-kindergarten through grade two. It is also an excellent guide for policy makers, administrators, and supervisors as they plan and implement State and local early literacy initiatives.