Examines the oral and written interactions of bilingual Mexican-origin students during a dialogue-journal literacy event that spanned first and second grades. Discusses student interpretations of their dialogue-journal assignments in terms of the students' childhood interests, social purposes, and participation in peer culture. (SV)

Maintains that partnering history and social studies with mathematics, science, and language arts provides opportunities for relevant and meaningful history. Argues that chronology is the single most important unifying factor in history. Asserts that teachers must engage students in the why and how of history. (CFR)

Examines the problem of children not learning to read well enough for reading to have a positive impact on their lives. It shows that while a large body of research exists on reading instruction, much of this knowledge has not made its way into the classroom. Five points about the reading problem and teaching effectiveness are addressed. (GR)

Describes why it is important for those interested in the education of students, and particularly the results of education for students with disabilities, to exhibit care in language usage. Clarifies ways in which the word "outcomes" is used today and discusses why we must be careful in selecting our words. (RJM)

Analyzes the semantics of outcome-based education (OBE). Proposes a model for using the term "outcome" and illustrates the term's applicability for all levels of the education system. Argues both for latitude in using the term "outcomes," and for willingness to integrate types of outcome with the system's different components.…

This article offers the viewpoint of a local educational authority officer concerning the British Code of Practice (1994), which provides standards for the legal statement, review, and reassessment processes for students with special educational needs. Positive and negative implications, as well as the historical and administrative context, are…

Proposes methods to enable both normal and at-risk young children to develop high and long-lasting competencies in language and other cognitive and social skills. Recommends engaging children with language informally in play and the ordinary routines of child care, both individually and in small groups, and emphasizing both the social,…

Presents an approach to geometry that integrates mathematics and language teaching. Suggests that mathematics is more than manipulation of numbers: it is a way of thinking about things. Argues that mathematics and language should be united especially to achieve the goal of promoting the development of analytical thinkers, as the ability to see…

Eight kindergarten teachers identified 53 students who were likely to experience difficulty in school and profiled the students in terms of pupil characteristics that are, according to research, implicated in early school performance. Low scores in student behavior, family structure, language, personality, and age were most representative of the…

Two university educators use reflective dialogue to discuss processes they went through in understanding the political nature and assumptions of their own pedagogical practices as they searched for methods which would promote teacher empowerment and actively involve students in shaping course curriculum for a language arts class they team taught.…

A basic writing course at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, serves students underprepared for first-year composition. The student population is culturally diverse, varying widely in ability and background. The course has evolved from a basic syllabus designed to teach writing skills to a more comprehensive, student-centered curriculum…

Traces the growth of a traditional classroom teacher working with children, aged 9-12, in an informal after-school drama program. Discusses dramatics teaching strategies, the use of imaging, empowering children to create, and the development of language through use in a purposeful context. Contains 22 references. (Author/SV)

Includes "Community Education" (Bennett); "Community Struggle for Education" (Shaif); "Role of Women in Literacy Campaign" (Moqbil); "Access with a Difference" (Steyne); "Bringing English as Second Language into the Mainstream" (Ahmed); "Accreditation for a Change" (Kerton); "Working…

Describes a study that examined problem-solving strategies selected by African-American preschool students with differing cognitive styles using LOGO computer software. Highlights include spatial development, minority performance and cross-cultural differences in cognitive style, and differences in field-dependent/field-independent children in…

Provides seven fully developed library media activities that are designed to be used with specific curriculum units in art, language arts, science, and social studies. Library media skills objectives, curriculum objectives, grade levels, resources, instructional roles, activity and procedures for completion, evaluation, and follow-up are described…