More than 50 percent of the world's adult population is unable to read or write at all. Since many of the tutors of adult illiterates have not had training in the teaching of reading, this booklet was written to introduce these tutors to the practical aspects of an area which has a vast literature of its own. The eleven sections in the booklet focus on various aspects of reading and writing: introducing reading without books--method 1; summary of lesson model; introducing reading without books--method 2; making your own materials with your pupil; writing (with examples of writing patterns and the printed alphabet); word attack skills; using cassette or tape recorder; phonics; spelling; social sight vocabulary; diagnosis; and conclusions. (JM)