Book excerpt: Literacy skills are fundamental to all areas of learning in the school curriculum but also have a profound impact on an individual's chances of finding satisfying work in the years beyond school. Reading and Writing Difficulties draws on the latest research from around the world to explain some of the causes of literacy problems and gives practical advice on methods to support students with their own difficulties. Details of additional resources and online links are provided to assist teachers who wish to pursue some of the issues in greater depth.