Using a computer gradebook can minimize time spent calculating grades. Nine software programs for grading are reviewed. (MNS)

Lists college board preparation programs available for Apple II microcomputers. Each entry includes title, source, subject area addressed, special features, and current cost. Programs help students prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), American College Testing Program (ACT), Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT), and the Graduate…

Administrative uses of Apple II microcomputers are described. Specialized and general-business software help to manage scheduling, inventory, recordkeeping, and budgeting. (MNS)

Examines the shift in schools toward using software that teaches critical thinking skills. A list of 14 packages is also provided, with each entry including name, recommended age level(s), current cost, source, and a brief description. (JN)

Presents the listing (and documentation) for an arithmetic drill program with color graphics and sound. The program offers simple arithmetic problems illustrated by colorful dinosaurs. A buzzer sounds if an answer is incorrect while a short piece of dinosaur music is heard if an answer is correct. (JN)

Eleven free or low-cost databases are described. Services, current costs, and (when applicable) address and telephone number are provided for Data-Net, GTE Telenet, General Videotex's Delphi Service, National Aeronautics and Space Administration Awareness database, Alternative Fuels Data Bank, Searchmart's software library, National Meteorological…

Apple's SuperPILOT is an authoring language that allows teachers to easily and quickly create effective programs for classroom use. SuperPILOT features (such as turtle graphics routines) and commands are described. Several sample program listings (including one for a tutorial on the periodic table) are presented. (JN)

Discusses hardware and software requirements for interactive video. Also illustrates how interactive video can be used to individualize instruction by describing a program which introduces students to the principles and operation of the offset press. A list of companies distributing interactive video hardware/software is included. (JN)

Designing a student database to meet your school's specific recordkeeping and reporting needs is described. Setting up a data file, listing categories, and generating reports are each illustrated. (MNS)

Addresses the question of what parents can do to help their children get a better education by using computers at home. The age span covered ranges from preschool to high school. Sources of educational software catalogs and list of educational computing magazines with applicability to home use are included. (JN)

Presents some rules of thumb for parents and teachers who are developing software libraries. Includes comments on drill and practice software, programs (simulations and adventure games) that teach thinking/problem-solving skills, and programs that foster creativity. Also includes list of resources for selecting software. (JN)

Discusses the use of computer adventure games and simulations to teach children critical thinking. Provides lists of mid-elementary to adult-level adventure games (with manufacturer and current price) and software helpful in teaching critical thinking (indicating name of package, manufacturer, age level, and current price for each entry). (JN)

Presents a list of Apple software that helps students develop specific skills through supplemental learning at home. Software, including program, manufacturer, grade level(s), and price, is provided for: writing; spelling; grammar; vocabulary; reading comprehension; computational mathematics; and mathematics concepts/applications. Also provides…

Discusses some of the myths surrounding grading on the curve. Provides a simple explanation of such statistical terms as histograms, relative frequency, normal distribution, mean, and standard deviation. Describes how to restructure the curve, including the program listing for a computer program that will assist the teacher. (TW)

Creative uses of Apple II microcomputers in classrooms are described. Projects involved topics ranging across the curriculum, with many involving writing and most using AppleWorks software. (MNS)