This article on mathematics in the curriculum describes how students learn the characteristics of conic section equations by entering them into graphing calculators to make happy faces in a high school or college algebra class. A sample worksheet page is included. (Author/LRW)

Outlines some of the main factors that led the University of Birmingham School of Medicine to develop an outcome-led curriculum for the new undergraduate medical course. (Author/CCM)

Describes seven resources on curriculum development in social studies found in the ERIC system. Among the cited items are journal articles on various aspects of the social studies scope and sequence and an ERIC document on the role of secondary social studies in developing technological literacy. (JDH)

Provides information on planning an English as a Second Language curriculum, compatible with existing language policy in various countries. Four categories are discussed: (1) English as a Second Language, (2) English as a Foreign Language, (3) English as an Additional Language, and (4) English as a Language of Wider Communication. (Author/PJM)

For the mathematics experience to be liberating, the curriculum must share how and why mathematical knowledge is developed, with special emphasis on its grounding in belief, intuition and subjectivity, and facilitate our understanding of the world in which we live and create and the beliefs we act upon. (Author)

Examines traditional theoretical assumptions about the pedagogy of writing and critical thinking, and shows that they are linked dialectically. Illustrates how a pedagogy of writing can be used as a learning vehicle to help students learn and think critically about any given social studies subject. (Author/MLF)

Presents an example of economics teaching in a "language arts format." The example shows how students might learn basic economics vocabulary by reading a story (supplied) and writing about its events. (GEA)

Audio instructional materials tend to be overlooked but are important in strengthening listening skills. They are also less expensive. Provides references for audio material catalogs and books to help develop listening skills. (MD)

Encourages participation of high school students in courses relating to politices and government and identifies five types of student political participation that can be incorporated into the curriculum. Activities include political campaigning, participating in decision making, interning, lobbying for a cause, and taking part in extracurricular…

Presents a history of world history instruction as it has evolved since the 1890s in the United States focusing on New York state. Concludes that the latest revisions have restored chronology; eliminated any attempt at universal history; decreased the presence of the social sciences; and retained the option for a topical treatment within a…

Recounts a high school teacher's experiences in simulating the Constitutional Convention of the United States. Includes part of the script used which the students designed. (JDH)

Provides ways for teachers to make ninth-grade general mathematics courses more pleasant and productive. (MD)

Suggests a way to resolve conflicts among college level teachers of geography regarding what should be taught in introductory human geography courses. The method centers on a list of core concepts which could be taught in all sections of the course. Concepts, selected through analysis of commonly used textbooks, include agriculture, industry, land…

Briefly summarizes recent advancements in information processing psychology, particularly work related to the representation of knowledge stored in long-term memory. Illustrates through example the educational possibilities yet to be derived from the study of cognition. (Author/MLF)

Presents lesson plans highlighting cultural differences between the United States and the Soviet Union. Includes background for teachers on the geography, the political system, and the economy. Student materials and suggested activities are provided. (DH)