This ERIC "FAST Bib" provides annotations of ERIC documents and journal articles that address the question of how to balance two opposing forces operating in today's schools, i.e., the forces of change and complacency, to establish an exemplary language arts curriculum that is a reality and not just a theoretical mirage. The 18…

Offers connections and resources about how to build a literature-based curriculum that goes beyond just the use of fiction. Provides an annotated list of 90 books on the topics of the cycle of seasons, weather cycles, cycles of the universe, and life cycles to use in connecting fiction and nonfiction. (MG)

Discussion of the use of poetry in the classroom highlights 15 poetry books and suggests numerous activities appropriate for grades 2 through 5 in the subject areas of African Americans, birds, color, discoveries, families, food/eating, haiku, multiculturalism, Native Americans, nature, New England, Paul Revere/biographies, seasons, trains, and…

Lists some of the citations in the ERIC database dealing with teaching global studies in elementary school. Includes works on approaches to integration of ethnic content into the curriculum, procedures for evaluating multicultural books, and teaching suggestions. Suggests that young students do not narrowly define culture. (DK)

This article briefly describes 10 well-regarded thinking skills programs, categorized as either infused programs, which are integrated into the established curriculum, or separate programs devoted to teaching skills. A program buyers checklist is provided. Additionally, a resource list is given which includes other notable programs, competitions,…

Presents annotations of 30 books selected through a field test in the United States of over 300 newly published books submitted by North American trade book publishers. Groups the books into 10 Primary (K-2, ages 5-8), 10 Intermediate (Grades 3-5, ages 8-11), and 10 Advanced (Grades 6-8, ages 11-14) levels. (SG)

The research reviewed in this topical bibliography and commentary generally pursues two lines of inquiry: what exactly information literacy is, and how educators can apply theories of information literacy to the day-to-day problems of elementary and middle-school students. The research contains a particular emphasis on the inability of current…

Outlines the importance and the relationship between the teaching of cultural literacy and the teaching of basic skills (such as reading) to students in the early grades. Points out that educators need to reexamine the slogans that undermine the teaching of traditional knowledge to young children. Includes references. (MD)

To examine the effects of traditional reading programs on children's attitudes toward reading and what influence children's literature might have on such attitudes, a study proposed a possible rationale for incorporating children's literature into the curriculum to provide a more balanced reading program for students. The study compiled 60…

This research indicates that art education can help develop visual perceptual abilities which can be applied to all areas of learning. Skills in visual perception developed through the study of art will help integrate subject areas. The study organized research and information that emphasized the redefinition of art in the elementary school…

For years, criticism of education in the United States has focused on the nation as ethnocentric. Schools can maximize their students' multicultural experiences by developing curricula that heighten global consciousness and responsibility. This book is intended as a guide for unlocking the treasures of the world. The book offers current resources…

Maintains that alphabet books are an overlooked valuable resource for children's literature to enhance social studies instruction. Possible uses include introducing students to new concepts and ideas as well as initiating group discussions and creative activities. Presents an annotated bibliography of 38 alphabet books. (CFR)

Lists some of the citations in the ERIC database dealing with teaching global studies in elementary school. Includes teaching methods, works on individual countries, curriculum suggestions, and student activities. Suggests that students need a foundation for a consciousness and acceptance of multicultural realities. (DK)

This book is intended for the teaching of nutrition and food concepts in informal settings for elementary school students. Part I offers a brief perspective on food education and a discussion on how children can learn about nutrition and good food habits through creative experiences in the kitchen. Part II presents a guide to involving children in…

This is an annotated listing of selected print and nonprint resource materials for a basic elementary social studies program in Canada. The list is intended to aid school systems and their personnel in selecting learning materials for use with the Alberta social studies curriculum as set out in their program of studies. Most materials cited were…