Considers theory, research, and techniques associated with whole-language and skill-based approaches to reading (including issues related to teaching phonics and reading comprehension) to see how remedial children can best be served. Examines ways group activities and cooperative learning can support remedial children. (SR)

Suggests the integration of the methods relating to theories that underlie emergent literacy (such as whole language, literature-based instruction, process-conference writing, cooperative learning, and composition-based instruction) with established spelling practices (such as the direct study of a basic core vocabulary, application of proven…

Maintains that whole language is not a prescriptive approach but a philosophy oriented toward student needs, inquiry, interaction, and, generally, "transaction" over "transmission." Discusses how a teacher becomes a whole language teacher, some of the difficulties of incorporating whole language into traditional curriculums, and the prospects for…

Describes the whole language "way of being" from the perspective of a department chair teaching remedial 9th-grade and honors 12th-grade students. Considers how whole language fits into standardized testing programs, what students take away from whole language, what its general characteristics are, and how it fits with student learning patterns…

Defines whole language as a spirit that provides shape or climate for a classroom by emphasizing the use of literature and activities that are experience or contextually based. Explains that whole language approaches strive for authentic or real situations in which learning comes naturally. Maintains that whole language is not just a trend. (TB)

Class collaboration and small group composition illustrate the embedding of cooperative learning theory in whole language classroom events. Through this experience all students participate in active learning. The teacher has a weighty role in decision making, setting of the lesson, assigning roles, and monitoring segments of cooperative learning…

Describes one educator's whole-language approach to elementary school reading. Her class activities focus on books and friends during February to help celebrate Valentine's day. Two student pages offer friendship-oriented student activities. (SM)

A study elaborated a profile of four northeastern Ohio middle-grade teachers who incorporated whole language instruction into their classrooms. The overarching question investigated was how middle grade teachers proceeded to configure whole language instruction in their classrooms. Teachers for the study were selected based on their use of and…

Slogans are commonly used to advocate a point or view or a political stance. In education many slogans are used. One of these is the phrase "research shows that..." Many issues must be considered in interpreting research results, and the statement must be considered carefully. "Cooperative learning" is a slogan often advanced,…

Reviews the growth of literature study as an open-ended enterprise for student growth and discussion. Critiques new directions in literature study among children. Explains basic ideas behind the authors' recommendation for literature study. (TB)

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…

In whole concept mathematics, students actually use math and understand the practicality of what they are studying. This learner-centered approach treats students with respect, uses real-life situations, encompasses a variety of learning styles, and involves cooperative learning techniques. (SK)

Describes a classroom in which the teacher has developed a sense of community through her emphasis on whole-language instruction. Describes the organizational patterns of both the teacher's and the children's activities in this exemplary whole-language classroom. Documents instances of collaboration and student choice. (SR)

This activity book includes across-the-curriculum activities with Olympic themes; a "cooperation relay" (four competitive team activities based on a cooperative learning model); highlights of African Americans' Olympic achievements; a poster on teamwork and activities based on the theme of keeping the Olympic torch alive; and a…

The theory and practice of whole language teaching should be integral and simultaneous components of preservice teacher education. A number of instructional strategies and class activities can be used to provide preservice teachers with experiences similar to experiences they will provide to elementary school children. Examples of class activities…