Society largely has accepted a conception of general intelligence that is ill-fitted to the world we live in today. Our standardized tests are based on this conception, as is much of our instruction. The problem is that the kinds of problems we test for and teach to are unlike the complex problems we face in real life. In this article, Robert…

Ten years ago, in "Kappan," the author published a detailed account of the old-fashioned and unengaging instruction used at his son Max's Chicago elementary school. Now he updates readers with a reflection on Max's high school years, describing a curriculum and teaching practices that desperately need an overhaul. Thanks to its…

Creating a meaningful high school diploma will expose students to the full range of adult options which will enable them to shape their high school education in a way that connects to their current interests and stimulates the growth of new ones. Fully connecting all students to these four worlds of knowledge will equip them to build one…

A practical description of theoretical superior high school teaching. (MF)

Examines sex discrimination in the curriculum, its administration, and in the rationale of certain courses and procedures, especially with regard to athletics and vocational preparation courses. (Author/DN)

In one year Malta High, in Northern Illinois, a school of approximately 125 students, expanded its course offerings from 51 to 153 -- and remained solvent. (Author)

Pittsburgh's high schools pioneer the teaching of law and its relationship to the student. (Author)

Proposes that state legislatures require all high school students to earn academic credit through unpaid community service to gain an instinct for public service. Considers the impact of such a program on student attitudes, anticipates possible objections, and makes recommendations for implementation. (Author/WD)

This essay criticizes as myths (1) a view of students as receptacles for information, (2) the assumption that new knowledge can be poured into an inelastic school year, and (3) the assurance that students are magically ready for work or college at 18. Instead, student motivation is offered as the key to reform. (MJL)

Conant's "The American High School Today" (1959) conveyed his confidence in consolidation of smaller schools into comprehensive high schools. The book sparked criticism. Conant's personal papers reveal that his breezy optimism hid doubts, frustrations, and uncertainties. The contradiction in his views foreshadows the turbulent 1960s. (PB)

Many educators, parents, and students are upset with the National Collegiate Athletic Association Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse's rejection of some high school graduates' acceptable coursework. The NCAA should stop trying to dictate high school course content, increase scrutiny of its members, tighten academic requirements for on-campus…

Reviews current high school problems and criticisms based on recent major studies suggesting the need for secondary education reform. (DW)

Describes a model career education program at Dallas' Skyline Career Development Center where students receive a balance of academic and occupational education leading to a career. (DW)

Summarizes three reasons for attending school (social, personal, and utilitarian) amd focuses on what should comprise utilitarian education for noncollege-bound high school students. Advocates curricula incorporating the skills, knowledge, values, and habits--especially continued willingness to learn--that will benefit students throughout…