A handbook for teachers of English as a second language (ESL) and content area teachers in grades 4-8 working with non-literate and preliterate students is designed to facilitate their entry into ESL instruction and mainstreaming into the regular school program. The handbook contains intensive, sequential guidelines for instruction in basic listening, speaking, and prewriting skills in six units covering: student orientation and survival skills (content area listening, oral participation, reading, and writing), classroom and school orientation (safety and everyday greetings), letter and number systems (spatial relationships and qualities, American monetary system), cultural environment (body parts, health and daily routines, food, time expressions), home and family environment (family members, residences and rooms), and natural environment (calendars, seasons, weather, clothing). Suggested activities and materials for presenting content area concepts are appended. (MSE)