This informational 14-minute videotape describes the national initiative for "Reading First," the method of teaching reading according to scientifically based research findings. In the videotape, the narration concentrates on the opportunities Reading First offers for every child to learn how to read proficiently by the end of the third grade. It first focuses on what works in the classroom and outlines the five components of effective reading instruction: (1) phonemic awareness; (2) phonics; (3) fluency; (4) vocabulary; and (5) comprehension. The videotape then illustrates for the viewer a Reading First classroom at an elementary school in action, with small groups of children and teachers working on skills to help support these five reading components. It is noted that the teachers in these Reading First classrooms practice early and ongoing assessment of their students, monitor their students' reading achievement, and that professional development helps them to perfect their teaching skills. (NKA)