At Londonderry School, a literature-based approach to learning to read and write is utilized in all classrooms. Children and teachers select literature to read and explore, and also use a published reading series to complement these choices.

A wide variety of techniques are used to assist children as they learn to read, respecting the variety of learning styles in the classroom. Children write across the curriculum about their interests and class projects. Spelling words, writing, science, art, and math often relate to current topics. Children keep writing folders, diaries, and/or journals based on their interests and teacher ideas. Inventive spelling is encouraged. Students write for content primarily, with an emphasis on grammar and style emerging in elementary grades. Children select writings for further work, reworking their writing by editing and then publishing.