Book excerpt: "This newly updated, user friendly encyclopedia explains concepts, aims and current requirements in all aspects of the primary English curriculum and is an invaluable reference for all training and practising teachers. Now in its fourth edition, entries have been updated to take account of new research and thinking and now reflect the requirements of the new Primary National Curriculum and particularly The Communication, Language and Literacy Development element. The approach is critical but constructive and supportive of the reflective practitioner in developing sound subject knowledge and good classroom practice. The encyclopedia includes: - over 600 entries, including new entries on English in the Early Years, bilingualism, SEN, the use of the internet, synthetic phonics and many more - short definitions of key concepts - succinct explanations of current UK requirements - extended entries on major topics such as speaking and listening, reading, writing, drama, poetry, bilingualism and children's literature - input on new literacies and new kinds of texts for children - discussion of current issues and some input on the history of English teaching in the primary years - gender and literacy - important references for each topic, advice on further reading and accounts of recent research findings - a Who's Who of Primary English and lists of essential texts, updated for this new edition. This encyclopedia will be ideal for student teachers on BA and PGCE courses preparing for work in primary schools and primary school teachers"--