In using manipulative materials in an elementary mathematics classroom, each student can be placed in a cooperative-task group, with each member of the group interdependently performing a specific function. This article describes in detail an activity utilizing pentominoes that demonstrates how such a classroom management system can be…

The article discusses strategies for parents to help their children improve math skills. It examines graphing skills and looks at three types of graphs (line graph, bar graph, and pie chart). Various simple activities illustrate what all scientists and mathematicians do when conducting experiments or developing mathematical models. (SM)

Describes a course designed to teach the relationship between science, agronomy, and society. Includes course and class description, course content, and evaluation of the course. (11 references) (MCO)

Discusses the use of advance organizers in elementary geography instruction. Asserts that maps and globes can be used as advance organizers to improve learning about geographic locations and regions. Provides two classroom activities with accompanying data charts to illustrate the technique. (CFR)

Develops the Pythagorean Theorem in the context of the Van Hiele levels by presenting activities appropriate for each level. Activities point to preparatory development (level 0), give 3 different versions of Euclid's proof (levels 1, 2, and 3), give some generalizations of the theorem (level 3), and explore the Pythagorean relationship in other…

Describes the use of observation folders as a tool for understanding and refining the basic skills of observation and inference that are important to the young child. These folders provide opportunities for students to view and examine "mystery pictures," make inferences, and arrive at their own conclusions about the subject of the…

Contends that future citizens will be required to understand and interact with people, cultures, and ideas throughout the world. Argues that this goal can be achieved only through an integrated approach to the social studies curriculum. Reviews the Texas social studies curriculum guide and points out how it exemplifies this approach. (CFR)

Argues that teaching methods usually associated with art history are not appropriate for the subject. Contends that the learning cycle method, based on active, exploratory learning, is much more conducive to student learning. Contends that students learn more and enjoy the course more with this approach. (CFR)

Five teachers recommend their favorite elementary teaching tools, including a counting board, a keyboard introduction game, geoboards for the overhead projector, a book on crafts using recyclables, tape recorders, computerized games, interlink cubes, a geology book, videotaped sentence structure games, and a solar calculator for use on overhead…

Ways in which the standards of problem solving, communication, reasoning, and connections can be incorporated into the elementary geometry curriculum are identified. Visualization of figures, conservation of area, shape and space, and multicultural study are discussed. (KR)

An activity in which students use manipulative materials to help solve simple algebraic equations using the operations of adding inverses, removing opposites, and sharing equally is presented. Directions, examples, the rationale, and cautions are included. (KR)

Describes a sociology major curriculum at Alverno College in Milwaukee (Wisconsin) designed around ability-based and assessment-based learning. Explores the daily teaching practices and curriculum development. States that students learn to evaluate their development. Includes portions of the syllabi and learning assessments from two courses. (NL)

Discusses two upper division writing-intensive courses, Sociological Theory and Sociology of Religion, offered at Millsaps College (Mississippi). Argues that greater emphasis on writing in the upper-division sociology courses allows students to become better learners and better sociologists. (DB)

Suggests that the availability and application of good software for microcomputers enhances college teaching methods. Argues that, in population geography classes, spreadsheet programs are especially useful; they are easy to learn and are well suited for manipulating numbers representing demographic variables. Gives a sample template and macro for…

Describes the modification in one kindergarten class of Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) to Sustained Loud Reading (SLR). Describes children's excited interactions with and sharing of books. (SR)