First Published in 2000. At the start of the new millennium the definition of literacy has taken on multiple electronic possibilities. But this is a book about the foundations of literacy in orality, in the words, stories and culture of every individual. This book explores the relation of storytelling to literacy and the role of story in human life.

Speaking and listening, along with reading and writing, are essential components of literacy and learning development within the National Primary Strategy. This best-selling introductory text updates teachers on national developments and best practice in speaking and listening in the classroom through: speaking and listening issues: a review story-telling and drama oral and popular culture and media planning for talk across the curriculum the impact of ICT: software, email, internet, computer games.

Originally published in 1990. Following the Swann Report of 1985 and its pleas for 'Education for All' the need for multicultural education in all areas was generally recognised. This need was particularly pressing in primary schools since racial attitudes are formed early in life and may be difficult to change later. This book documents and evaluates a number of approaches in this area, considering their effects on pupil learning and development. These include whole-school projects in mathematics, environmental studies, and a school exchange; and experiences of pupils at key stages. The authors argue that collaboration, participation and democratic procedures lay behind the more successful developments.

The authors seek to give teachers and those who assist them in primary classrooms the confidence to 'have a go' at telling stories in different contexts, and to create opportunities for children to develop their own storytelling abilities. For children, oral stories are the first introduction to their culture, and oral accounts are the means by which they first shape and communicate their thoughts.

This practical handbook, placing storytelling at the heart of literacy, history, education and cultural identity, shows how it relates to current initiatives to improve literacy levels in young children. Practicing and student teachers and teaching assistants will be encouraged to use storytelling across the primary curriculum, not just to enhance listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

Aimed at students on primary teaching teacher training courses this practical handbook looks at how to develop children's abilities in speaking and listening, as required by the National Curriculum. Speaking and listening, along with reading and writing, are essential components of literacy and learning development within the National Primary Strategy. This best-selling introductory text updates teachers on national developments and best practice in speaking and listening in the classroom through: Speaking and listening issues: a review Story-telling and drama Oral and popular culture and media Planning for talk across the curriculum The impact of ICT: software, email, internet, computer games