Based on research findings, public hearings, reports submitted by individuals and professional organizations, as well as on the training and experiences of the study committee, this report contains the findings and recommendations from a study of the English language arts programs in the North Carolina public schools. The first section of the report is an abridged version of the study, stating purpose, status, background and areas of study, and a summary of the recommendations. The second section is a comprehensive review and contains the rationales for the recommendations, which cover curriculum, evaluation and testing, methodology and resources for improving classroom managment and practices, and staffing and training. Appendixes include a list of study committee membership, a schedule of activities, a summary of major issues studied, and a list of persons submitting research reports and formal presentations to the study committee. (HTH)