The NCTE has established a center of policy research to honor the legacy of James R. Squire in order to support progressive reform in English language arts education. James R. Squire's life and work are discussed in detail.

Performance contracting, and some reservations thereto, are discussed as related to the present movement. The reservations are related to: (1) Accountability; (2) Individualized Teaching; (3) Extrinsic Rewards; (4) Testing; and (5) The Corruption of Both Language and the Process of Education. (DB)

For many reasons, oral histories should commend themselves to classroom teachers. Sensitively edited, they are eminently readable because of their intimacy, their authenticity, and their varied presentation of human life. As with other books, especially novels written in the first person and autobiographies, oral histories can provide students…

A plea for ethnic pluralism in the teaching of literature. (DD)

Discusses concerns about literature and composition in the English curriculum. Looks at the traditional place of literature in the curriculum since the 1960s. Discusses the increased emphasis on writing instruction and the need to include nonprint media in the curriculum. (SR)

There are four conditions essential to developing and maintaining sound English curricula in the secondary schools. The first condition is that society hold public school education in sufficient respect that education can attract teaching candidates who are emotionally mature and committed to high intellectual and technical standards. More than…

Reflects on George Henry's essay, noting that its content is substantial and provocative, its erudition is expansive, and its tone is impassioned. (HOD)

Examines the appeal of oral histories--their intimacy, authenticity, seeming reliability, and panoramic as well as sharply focused presentations of human life--and the possibilities they offer as subject matter in English classrooms. Provides lists of oral histories and "how-to" books on oral history. (RL)

Two educators express their opinions on the relative merits of a traditional English curriculum v one that includes popular culture. (RL)

So far as excellence exists, it exists relative to something else such as the historical age, the chronological age of the creator, the societal conditions under which creation takes place, and the limitations of the physical world. While excellence is sought and revered, it is often made to serve ulterior ends such as higher pay, higher scores on…

Describes the tenets of the back to basics movement, especially as it applies to minimum competency testing, and points out that it creates an environment which impedes consequential learning. (DD)

This paper considers briefly some of the changes in values over the past 50 years. It indicates that the old-fashioned values concerning thrift; the need for human community; the rewards of love, marriage, and fidelity; the spaciousness of the globe; the proper content for English; and the fitness of public education have dwindled in importance as…

Despite its educational centrality, teaching cannot be as positive and effective a force as it might and should be unless a number of conditions prevail. Foremost is that teachers be given greater voice in curricular decisions. Teaching must receive stronger financial support and greater respect from the public if the profession is to attract and…

Current uses of standardized English tests are adversely affecting students, misleading lay people, and having a pernicious effect on the English profession. These tests are severely limited, incapable of assessing speaking skill and effectiveness, reading interests, appreciation of literature, listening skill, understanding and appreciation of…