Using a quantitative method of data collection, this research explored the question: Do active learning strategies used in grades 5 and 6 affect student vocabulary achievement in a positive or negative direction? In their research, Wolfe (2001), Headley, et al., (1995), Freiberg, et al., (1992), and Brunner (2009) emphasize the importance of…

Argues that, especially in the intermediate grades, keying into students' personal interests is a powerful motivator for learning. Illustrates this with the story of a formerly excellent student who became disillusioned with school in fifth grade, becoming resistant and disruptive. Describes how a project approach to reading and writing that…

Describes a project for fifth-grade in which students learn about their personal heritage and create a family history book. Identifies three relevant National Council for the Social Studies thematic strands and lists related activities. (CMK)

Presents a lesson plan in which students use an encyclopedia to research a famous person. Identifies library media skills objectives, curriculum (subject area objectives), grade levels (4 and 5), resources, instructional roles, activity and procedures for completion, evaluation guidelines, and follow-up activities. Includes a sample worksheet.…

Describes a history fair for a fifth-grade class in U.S. history. Contends that the fair provided students with opportunities to integrate their understanding of history from historical fiction, nonfiction, and textbooks. (CFR)

Describes a research project where fifth- and sixth-grade students compiled information from original sources and presented it on a Web site. Discusses planning, students' critical thinking in research strategies, and learning outcomes. Includes a summary of selected topics researched with a note on technology skills used. (AEF)

Discusses the service projects at Hoover Elementary School in Iowa City, Iowa that link economic education, service learning, and global education. Describes one project where the students involved the community in sending educational materials and financial aid to a school in Brazil. (CMK)

Reports results of a qualitative study that examined what a group of fifth graders thought about using the "Research Buddy," a World Wide Web site designed to help them do a research project. Findings center on the comparison of student perceptions with observed student behavior. The data collection instruments are appended. (MES)

Reports that students from fourth and fifth grades, along with middle and advanced history students acting as mentors, planned and executed a five-month historical research field project. Student research teams carried out at a local site a two-week archaeological dig uncovering artifacts and discovering how their predecessors lived. (NL)

Describes the work of the Children's Center for Global Understanding in Duluth, Minnesota. The purpose of the center is to provide upper elementary pupils, teachers, teacher education students, and university professors with resources, curriculum, and support. The center emphasizes environmental issues, human rights, justice, and the understanding…