Discussion of models of information skills focuses on an evaluation of the use of the PLUS (Purpose, Location, Use, and Self-Evaluation) model in a secondary school physics class in England. Topics include constructivism; mental models; brainstorming; concept-mapping; student opinions; teacher opinions; and the school librarian's perspective.…

Suggests ideas for school library media specialists to encourage partnerships with classroom teachers. Highlights include a form for teachers to indicate unit topics; checking curriculum guides and state standards; providing needed resources; email communication; teaching part of a unit; providing parents with helpful information; and assisting…

The first part of a two-part review of research related to school library media collections summarizes studies with implications for budgets and collection size, the selection process, collection policies, and the librarian as censor. A table compares data on holdings and expenditures for schools providing high-level library service with national…

Described is an activity that incorporates a computer, geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus to answer questions about the planet Mars. A possible crescent of Mars is compared to those of Venus and Mercury. (KR)

Clarifies the concept of universal basic education. Highlights the need for performance criteria and ways to measure literacy attainment. Identifies issues related to improving primary education, seeing adult literacy as its necessary complement. Underscores the substantial resources required to achieve universal basic education. (CH)

Describes provisions for information technology in the National Curriculum for elementary and secondary students in England and Wales. Topics discussed include the current state of information technology in schools; teacher development; learning resources; local education authority (LEA) policies; equality of opportunity; learning processes; and…

Argues the usefulness of timelines for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade history instruction, contending that timelines reveal history's unfolding better than fact-recall techniques. Presents ways to use timelines, including autobiographical, large display, and manipulative timelines, and combining timelines with biographies. Suggests timelines help…

Presents a case study involving two teaching certification students. Examines how a social studies methods course and a one-year elementary school postbaccalaureate teacher education program influenced students' educational beliefs and practices. Finds influences are partial, differential, and interactive with students' backgrounds and…

Introduces law-related education (LRE) projects developed in Texas, highlighting the State Bar of Texas' LRE curriculum, "Law in a Changing Society." Identifies LRE's nontraditional methods, including role playing, simulations, debates, mock trials, and lectures from community professionals. Stresses LRE's ability to teach responsible…

Discusses high school dropout problem in the United States. Contends that a number of inappropriate hurdles have been placed between high school students and a diploma of graduation. Advocates a strategy of gaining small wins to help students complete high school and suggests specific tactics of a practical nature for school counselors helping…

Provides learning activities concerning the horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons. Includes step-by-step directions for four activities: (1) the life cycle of nuclear weapons; (2) nuclear nonproliferation: pros and cons; (3) the nuclear power/nuclear weapons connection; and (4) managing nuclear proliferation. (NL)

Described is how folk art can be used to teach spatial thinking and symmetry. Activities are open-ended and can be used for all age groups and levels of development. Mathematics is integrated with the study of culture, art, and history in these activities. (KR)

Presented is a detailed review of eight computer software packages. Strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations for each game are listed. Mathematical and thinking skills, problem solving, drill and practice, procedural activities, decision making, understanding money, and basic skills are emphasized. (KR)

This study investigated two questions: (1) will student selection of instructional materials motivate them to learn and (2) are female students reacting to discrimination in textbooks? Tested an instructional method that included discussion, brainstorming, and keeping journals and logs. Concludes that students' performance improves when they see a…

Discusses the current state of American public education and identifies collegiality as being important in bringing about educational improvements. Topics discussed include individualization in the teaching and learning process; the role of the school media specialist; continuing teacher education; end-user searching of databases; and in-house…