First published in 1987, English in the Primary School analyzes the role of English within the primary school curriculum. It assesses the contributions of reading, writing, poetry, and drama in fulfilling the aims of English teaching and raises questions of immediate concern to all those involved in the teaching of English: which teaching strategies encourage the child to see reading as an enjoyable and meaningful activity? How can teachers make writing less intimidating and more diverse in range? Why is poetry 'at risk' in the classroom? How can poetry's important contribution be safeguarded and extended? Why should drama be more widely used by those involved in encouraging language development?

In answering these and other questions, Tricia Evans presents practical, tried, and tested ideas, integrating all the facets of English teaching. English in the Primary School also confronts more general issues facing the primary teacher, including: which teaching methods are most likely to ensure that English responds to a wide range of pupil needs and interests? How can the teacher help to ensure that children feel a sense of personal importance in the classroom and real interest in their work? Which assessment methods are most likely to encourage progress in English?