Title: Developing early literacy : more than learning the alphabet

Abstract: When do children start to learn literacy? What can parents and teachers do to encourage and help their children to become literate? This article answers both these questions, and the answers may come as a surprise to some readers.

Title: Strategies for improving the academic performance of low achievers

Abstract: The author is a practising teacher who has, over the years, identified some of the causes underlying poor academic performance. In his article, Lal identifies 12 such causes, and puts forward some suggestions on how to deal with these problems.

Title: Cultural factors and errors in the English classroom : teacher attitudes and student learning

Abstract: Vocea offers her thoughts on how cultural factors can have positive and negative effects on learning. Her comments relate to Fijian students, especially those who live in rural areas, and deal with several issues, including making errors, discipline and group work.

Title: Whole language : from a transmission to a transaction model, a priority message in in-service training

Abstract: The author urges educators to stress Whole Language in in-service teacher training. Whole Language is transactional, in strong contrast to transmission models of teaching. It is student-centred, and its core rests in gaining meaning and understanding meaning through the utilisation of learning strategies and processes that encourage learners to solve problems.