Matrices occupy an awkward spot in a typical algebra 2 textbook: sandwiched between solving linear systems and solving quadratics. Even teachers who do not base their course timeline and pacing on the class textbook may find a disconnect between how matrices are taught (procedurally) and how other topics are taught (conceptually or with real-world…

This book speaks to all those teachers who teach the "gen ed" literature course that their students must take to complete a general education or core curriculum requirement. These students--the 95 percent who are not English majors--are the students educators hope will become active and reflective members of a reading public. Given this goal,…

In the fall of 2003, the author conducted research on the student teaching process in Japan. The basis for most of the lessons observed was rich mathematics problems. Upon returning to the US, the author used one such problem while teaching an algebra 2 class. This article introduces that problem, which gives rise to both linear and quadratic…

Twenty-one classroom guidelines are listed for the benefit of student and first-year music teachers. (AM)

Discusses how a student teacher tried to teach with real books, especially those written by and for Native Americans. Notes that the cooperating teacher's idea of literature study was to teach particular reading skills and to use worksheets and comprehension questions. Appends a 17-item annotated bibliography of recommended books about Native…

Provides both a description of a pedagogic method and a demonstration of that method in practice. Describes the use of learning journals in a particular Shakespeare course. Explains that as a part of this course, student who are studying for degrees in English or Drama teach a Shakespeare play to classes in local Year 6, 7, and 8 inner-city London…

Discusses new ideas about teacher education, specifically, the need to develop a literate community of teachers who are familiar with the most current educational philosophy and theories. (SRT)

The distinguishing feature of the secondary level language arts methods course at the University of North Florida is that all readings, assignments, and class activities are designed to promote the highest possible degree of student participation in and responsibility for the learning process. Underlying all course activities is the premise that…

Describes a method whereby sixth-form students assist the language instructor by leading small groups in oral practice. (AM)

Describes the workable strategies a student teacher found to deal with student apathy and disinterest. Discusses the use of script writing; balancing "old" literature with writing hot off the presses; using writing about real subjects which captivate student interest to work on writing arguments; and exploring cultural incongruities through…

Philosophy, technique, and issues of tutoring are presented to aid student teachers in sharpening tutoring, teaching, and communication skills. The establishment of a positive student self-concept and the prospective tutor's development of effective questioning techniques are two of the topics treated. A guide for volunteer tutors is appended. (LH)

Suggests an eight-step approach to student teacher observations to increase students' professional growth including simulation, peer-reaction, video review, practice teaching, audio review, real teaching, tape review, and post-observation conference. (RC)

Posing as an avuncular letter writer, the author discusses the problems faced by first-time teachers teaching fourth-grade composition. Proposes exercises to motivate children to write, communication inspiring ways to arrange classroom environment, guided free-writing assignments, and heuristics prompts for writing a fairy tale. (JG)

A middle school English teacher who frequently observes student teachers notes some of the basic truths of the classroom usually encountered by new instructors. Discusses ways that teacher deportment affects student attitude, the importance of teaching by example, the value of reading aloud, and more. (JG)

This role-play activity is designed for use by teacher educators in a general or content area methods class to help education majors become knowledgeable of role expectations in the student teaching experience and build good interpersonal role relationships. Students conduct library research and interviews concerning role expectations, use the…