By breaking down "fronteras" (borders) in classroom instruction, educators can interrupt and examine the interactions and discourses that create separations and alienations among people. The authors describe an effective instructional approach used in a second-grade class and modified for a class of preservice teachers.

Learning to read and write efficiently is of the utmost importance in elementary school. However, writing is frequently difficult and can be demotivating for beginning writers. Fortunately these barriers can be partially alleviated with parental help. Many studies showed that parental involvement influences children's competence and motivation in…

This qualitative study explored reasons K-6 teachers did or did not engage students regularly in writing. Interviews with 14 teachers, classified as high, transitional, and low implementers of writing instruction, revealed three themes: hindrances and helps, beliefs concerning practice, and preparation and professional development. Both high and…