Suggested writing projects to stimulate thought-to-theme writing connections involve: (1) haiku based on animals; (2) acronyms as vocabulary builders; (3) aromas and textures as inspiration; (4) writing proverbs and fables; and (5) a "musical chairs" approach to story-writing, with props supplied at intervals to test creative technique. (FG)

Teachers can use dialog journals to inspire their students to write. Such a method allows students to write and teachers to answer without worrying about red marks or negative comments. The article suggests topics to get students writing and ideas for encouraging students to write. (SM)

Ways to make historical figures come to life through classroom simulations are described. They include: (1) teacher impersonations of time-machine visitors; (2) public-address-system voices from the past; (3) writing about historical personages from different perspectives; (4) mock trials; and (5) role playing by students. (PP)

This article describes the concepts and activities of the Write Stuff Workshop, a joint venture that brings parents and children together as allies in writing. Topics include planning the workshop, workshop activities, and at-home follow-up activities for parents and students. Three reproducibles for parents are included. (IAH)

This collection of classroom ideas for the elementary school teacher contains learning activities, teaching methods, and suggestions on a wide variety of topics. The 22 teacher-submitted articles include ideas on writing, art, getting acquainted, vocabulary, self-esteem, open house, Halloween, mathematics, drama, hobbies, Valentine's Day, oral…

This collection of short descriptions of activities provides tips for teaching elementary students. Activities focus on reading and book selection, differences between rain and snow, cooking bread snakes, place value, family heritage, clothing from around the world, and interviews with war veterans. (SM)