The language arts component of the California State "Model Curriculum Guides" series, this document sets guidelines for the elementary and middle school English language arts curriculum. The guide suggests a learning sequence--core, integrated, and across the curriculum--and delineates concepts, skills, and activities appropriate for learners in kindergarten through grade 3, grades 3 through 6, and grades 6 through 8. In keeping with a process approach philosophy, the content and model lessons of the guide are structured to help teachers lead discussions, frame questions, and design activities that contain multiple levels of learning. Twenty-two guidelines are presented, each followed by representative enabling activities with suggested texts for the three grade groups. General guidelines emphasize the study of significant literary works, basing instruction on students' experiences, and developing an interrelated program that is integrated across the curriculum. A summary of the 22 guidelines concludes the guide. (JG)