This article describes the teaching method of Dorothy Heathcote, Professor of Drama at the Institute of Education at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. She uses classroom dramas for her classes, letting the children create their own dramatic situations. (JA)

This article differentiates between sustained productive learning and short term enthusiasm in learning. (BB)

Students need to be able to classify mapping devices, map purposes, and code forms so that skills learned on one map setting can be readily transferred to any map using the same techniques. (MB)

Several across-the-curriculum activities, with a penguin theme, are described. Research, discussion, science, writing, math, and art activities are listed. Included is a list of resources which gives sources for books and posters. (IAH)

In a whole-language kindergarten, children learn language skills in a social context. Suggestions on how to develop activities that focus on a different letter of the alphabet each week are offered. These activities tie together all areas of the curriculum. (DF)

This article proposes a system for developing lesson plans which accommodate differences in student learning styles without jeopardizing the pace of learning. Four teaching styles (direct teaching, practice, reflection, application) are identified, and activities that work well with these styles are suggested. A sample lesson plan is included.…

Photography projects that incorporate art, drama, and writing activities help students develop a deeper appreciation of the books they read. Using photos to make book cubes and to sequence stories allows students to share their responses without writing. (DF).

Information and resources are provided for teachers in developing a unit to help students become smarter consumers and understand the purposes of merchandise packaging. (DF)

This list of practical and useful ideas is compiled from veteran teachers for motivating students, making a dull subject more interesting, or making a difficult subject easier to understand. (MT)

Teachers do not have to be musicians to help their students learn basic musical concepts. Activities are suggested that provide experiences with visualizing sounds, conducting, performing, and composing. These lessons can start a foundation on which to build more formal studies. (DF)

An elementary school class that learned sign language also benefited from several positive side effects. As the students developed a new means of communication, they also become more aware of deaf individuals and their needs. (DF)

Acid rain has become a dangerous problem that threatens wildlife, architecture, and human health. This article offers background information on causes and possible remedies of acid rain. Classroom activities and resources for both student and teacher are provided to help in the development of a teaching unit. (DF)

Mathematical games designed for children from kindergarten to grade five using buttons as counters are described. Each game description includes a brief discussion of the number and mathematical concepts it teaches. (JD)

Children develop enthusiasm for learning about the states when they become "tour directors." Activities to help students learn about various states and then convince others to "visit" these places are offered. (DF)

Students need to learn about the real-world issues our nation faces. They need to understand how concerned individuals gather information, consider opposing opinions, come to conclusions, and act on their beliefs. Background information, resources, and classroom activities are provided to help students understand the importance of voting. (DF)