Zag-zag Island makes children's first encounter with English a non-threatening experience, introducing them to language through play. There are no words in the coursebook, so that children can take part in communicative activities and avoid any confusion with written words. Children join the characters Lucy and Tom as they travel around the island, with each unit focusing on a different story. Each story is told in pictures, without text. In addition there are games, cut-outs, puzzle pages etc. The Teacher's Book contains brief teaching notes and suggestions for linking the course topics with the rest of the curriculum to enrich children's learning experience and help children become part of the school community.