The nature of the elementary school population in the U.S. has changed considerably since today's adults were school children. In general, the student bodies of elementary schools are becoming increasingly diverse; this is a trend that is projected to continue into the 21st century. The past 25 years have seen changes in society, family structures, and technology-all of which have profoundly affected children changing the very nature of childhood and influencing the ways children learn. The second edition of this book continues to present a brief, yet thorough examination of the major aspects of the Language Arts. The book adopts a balanced approach to the Language Arts, employing techniques of both holistic and traditional methods. Important topics are covered without weighing the readers down with heavy citations, lengthy jargon, and radical approaches. Topics include: a definition of Language Arts, how children learn language, oral communication, written communication, teaching writing, literature, and more. Elementary school teachers.