The strength of collaborative learning is in involving students in intellectual problem solving. In a college-level U.S. literature course at East Stroudsburg University (Pennsylvania), traditional lecture and Socratic questioning establishes background; and collaborative learning is used to help students examine the central questions about the…

The author listed four possible avenues for fostering international relations: individual contacts; letters, tapes, etc.; broadcasts and telecasts; and literature. Literature was described as an excellent means of communication and as a vehicle for creating good will, promoting understanding, and clearing up misconceptions. Several ways is which…

This article describes how teachers combined schoolwide enrichment and differentiated instruction models to design a fifth-grade fantasy literature unit. Small groups explored novels to learn the germane content and genre characteristics and then regrouped to refine and apply what was learned to a variety of open-ended problems. (Contains…

One of the best tools for sharpening students' problem solving skills can be found in the mystery story, which calls for logical thinking, paying attention to detail, and distinguishing between facts and assumptions. Activities that can help to develop problem solving skills are described along with several references to mystery magazines and…

Considered the problems of teaching literature versus social attitudes ingrained against learning about literature. (RK)

Presents an accessible method to help adolescents become thoughtful decision makers, which combines social decision-making/problem-solving activities with the literature of the eighth-grade English classroom. (SR)

Reflects that the term "whole language" involves instilling a love of literature, problem-solving and critical thinking, collaboration, authenticity, personalized learning, and much more. Examines some recent research dealing with two fundamental points of contention between the two sides of the phonics and whole language debate. Finds evidence…

The "Future Problem Solving" exercises (originated by E. Paul Torrance at the University of Georgia) can be used as a method to teach literature. The process used in future problem solving entails all the higher level processes, involves both critical and creative thinking, as well as cooperative learning, and lends itself to the…

Outlines a procedure for helping mature students learn the art of textual analysis. Notes the advantages of problem solving in small groups as a means of developing skills for literary analysis. (RL)

Offers examples of activities for teaching English language arts that teach students to think critically, solve problems, and work collaboratively, while exploring problems that are complex and interesting but are open to a variety of solutions. Describes an activity used for teaching argument and persuasive writing, and activities for teaching…

A four-stage teaching model that encourages students to use fiction as a source of mental imagery and insight into social work issues is presented. Teachers can use the stages flexibly for different courses and levels of student expertise. (Author/MSE)

Describes the use of value analysis exercises to promote small group and class discussion. (MM)

English teachers have given some attention to aesthetic reading, usually terming it the development of literary appreciation, but many of the classroom practices used to foster that appreciation have been counterproductive. One consideration in developing aesthetic reading has to do with the means for promoting reflection in readers. That is,…

Outlines how poetry, especially the Moderns, can enhance problem-solving skills. Presents George Steiner's four problem categories: contingent, modal, tactical, and ontological. Discusses the application of these categories to obtuse poetry. (KM)

Finds that Agatha Christie's mysteries can be used to encourage discussion of characterization and human values, to promote reading and literary analysis skills, and to develop both writing and problem-solving skills. Suggests several language arts activities. (MM)