E|--0--| 1st 
B|--2--| 2nd 
G|--2--| 3rd 
D|--2--| 4th 
A|--0--| 5th 
E|--X--| 6th 

What's that X doing there! The 'X' means you do not play the string(s) in a chord. Therefore, for an A chord we have to strum from the 5th string down. Do not let this overwhelm you! Try to play it naturally, if you hit the sixth string it's no big deal. As your dexterity improves you will become better at it.

Play an A chord:
1. Place your 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.
2. Place your 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string.
3. Place your 3rd finger on the 2nd fret of the 2nd string.
4. Strum down from the 5th string.

Your fingers might feel a little crowded, practice this till you got it, next will be Am (A minor) which cause you to shift your third finger to a different fret.

E|--0--| 1st 
B|--1--| 2nd 
G|--2--| 3rd 
D|--2--| 4th 
A|--0--| 5th 
E|--X--| 6th 

Play an Am chord:
1. Place your 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.
2. Place your 3rd finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string.
3. Place your 1st finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string.
4. Strum down from the 5th string.

This is just like the E chord, except you are playing down one string. Again, play it naturally, do not concern yourself with placing your pick!!!