In 1985, the Global Method of Structural Analysis (GMSA) for teaching reading was introduced to first and second graders in Mexico. Breaking away from the more traditional educational methods, it established a basis for more flexible education and effectively utilized critical thinking skills. The preparation stage (reading readiness) begins in pre-school or kindergarten and continues throughout the GMSA process. Global perception of enunciation corresponds to the program's first unit. The second stage involves the manipulation of pieces of the enunciation, followed by an analysis and synthesis of the word, in relation to the structure of the word and of the whole enunciation. The final stage is the reading of texts (reading assertion) during which time the child acquires speed and rhythm in reading. Today, GMSA has been demonstrated to be most adequate in responding to the needs, interests and cognitive development of Mexican children age 6 to 8. It also takes into consideration the Mexican child's culture. Adherence to the more traditional methods have given rise to some problems, but GMSA's excellent results are cause for optimism. (JMM)