Young children's capabilities continue to be revealed through brain and other scientific research. These advances in knowledge have led to the implementation of more progressive learning experiences in preschool programs. More in-depth explorations accommodate young children's intellect and they help children develop life skills as competent…

In this article, the authors discuss how learning contracts can motivate students. "A learning contract is simply a written agreement between teacher and learner in which the learner undertakes to complete mutually agreed upon tasks in a specified amount of time on his or her own initiative" (Greenwood, 2003, p.1). Contracts are designed to…

Designed as a follow-up activity for gifted and talented classes that have been using learning centers, this contract directs students in building their own learning centers. Six sections cover choosing a subject, researching, setting objectives for the learning center, developing activities for the center, writing directions and collecting…

Teachers can motivate students to read by offering choices. Ideas for developing a contract strategy for reading are discussed. Optional activities and contract terms for both average and above average students are suggested. (DF)

Sample student learning contracts and job (task) cards, which have been used successfully with junior high school students, are collected in this document. The sample contracts in the areas of reading, writing, and language arts show a variety of formats and point systems for earning grades. The job cards, which can be placed in a learning…

Guidelines for establishing and maintaining classroom learning centers are contained in this booklet. The following topics are included: (1) a rationale for creating learning centers; (2) how to orient the children to the new learning center and some important aspects to consider when developing a learning center environment; (3) ways to create…

Presents and discusses a contract to encourage students to get involved in cleaning up the environment. (PR)

Presents a unit approach that utilizes Howard Gardner's seven intelligences (Linguistic, Logical/mathematical, Spatial, Music, Kinesthetic/body, Intrapersonal, and Interpersonal). Students are given a list of activities and make a contract to complete a certain number on the list. A sample unit for fifth graders on the bodily systems is provided.…

Designed for use with elementary students, 44 activities using a restaurant theme integrate creative thinking and decision-making skills with language arts, mathematics, and art. The activities, which can be used independently by the students, deal with types of restaurants, names and themes, floor plans, interior and exterior design, house…

An elementary-level learning activity packet helps students develop self-awareness. Activities such as poems, crossword puzzles, collages, and writing exercises focus on pride, self-control, self-confidence, individual characteristics, friendship, likes and dislikes, and emotions. Suggestions are provided for using this packet as part of a…

The College of Saint Teresa's value-based educational program, known as "Design for Choicemakers," is described. The program is designed to foster students' holistic learning and personal development, based on cooperation among the academic affairs, student affairs, and pastoral affairs offices. The links between the curriculum and…

This document is intended as a template for individuals initiating and developing adult education distance learning programs. The introduction discusses the following issues: benefits of distance learning; flexibility; confidentiality; retention; and the best students to target. The template and supplementary materials are organized in five…