This digest discusses the rationale for integrating language and content instruction, and provides an overview of some of the program models and teaching techniques that focus on this approach. The following program models are highlighted: Content-based language instruction, sheltered subject matter teaching, theme-based instruction, sheltered…

Describes the experiences of first grade teachers who use the whole-language approach to teaching and learning. Learning involves students participating in activities they find meaningful and sharing knowledge with their peers. Students must exercise initiative in learning, and they are responsible for making choices. (SM)

It is argued that if whole language teachers are to use computers in their reading and writing programs, they will need both software and strategies for using computers that are consistent with their beliefs and goals. For whole language teachers, as for other good teachers, it is the teacher's beliefs about curriculum and instruction rather than…

Describes experiences of a fifth grade teacher who converted her classroom to a whole language teaching and learning environment. In her child-centered classroom, she emphasizes student empowerment and decision making, cooperative learning, and flexibility. Her top priority is for students to participate and learn critical thinking and…

Presents an excerpt from the journal of a second grade teacher who reflected on the daily challenges and possibilities of learning in a child-centered, meaning-based classroom free of workbooks and standardized testing; an interview with author Nancie Atwell, a language specialist and veteran teacher; and suggestions for books and journals. (SM)

Study examined the content and form of elementary students' discussions in cooperative groups. Researchers recorded group discussions during whole language literacy instruction. Across classrooms, much verbal interaction was oriented toward academic and procedural talk, although the cognitive level of the discussions was low. Some grade level and…

Reports a study of eight teachers identified as empowered or having become more empowered, focusing on influences on and the developmental process of teacher empowerment. Journal entries, interviews, and observations as teachers conducted reading and language arts instruction demonstrated that gaining empowerment was a spiraling process. (SM)

This book is written for preservice and inservice teachers who work primarily, but not exclusively, with children in kindergarten through eighth grade. The materials and methods for teaching culturally diverse students are most appropriate for children of elementary and middle school age. Using techniques of cooperative learning and incorporating…

A field-tested instruction and assessment model is described that fosters development of second-language skills by integrating writing with listening, speaking, reading, and problem solving. The model draws upon elements of process-oriented instruction, whole language learning, cooperative learning, cognitive mapping, and reading and writing…

Describes middle and high schools in Upper Arlington (Ohio) that use the whole-language approach to teaching and learning. The schools emphasize student-centered education, cooperative learning, and student involvement in decision making. The curriculum is fully integrated, with writing used as a learning tool in all subject areas. (SM)

Contends that the conflict between the traditional, textbook-dominated establishment and the supporters of the whole-language movement is nothing less than a revolution. Describes tenets of the whole-language approach as they apply to the overarching goals of the social studies curriculum. (CFR)

Mississippi's guide for instructional planning for the primary grades consists of six units and appended materials. Research principles incorporated into the guide include: (1) a project approach that encourages the study of specific topics; (2) an integrated language program based on use of children's literature for informal and formal…

Determining the appropriate amount and type of teacher and student input is a complex curriculum and instructional challenge for writing teachers. This paper describes a teacher-researcher's experiences while teaching a fifth-grade class and studying a developing writer's workshop approach to writing instruction. She investigated: (1) how students…

The characteristics of migrant students that place them at risk educationally are described and reasons for low special education delivery rates are examined. Guidelines for educational intervention are offered, with the goal of increasing migrant children's economic options and opportunities. Three methodologies are recommended: learning…

This paper describes cooperative learning strategies, their research base, and the rationale for their use as an instructional process for low English proficiency students (LEPS). The paper examines seven components of effective implementation of cooperative learning with language-minority students, and reports on preliminary work on a 5-year…