This teacher resource handbook provides a guide to science fiction books and themes for developing a secondary or university course on science fiction literature. The first section defines and examines the origin and reputation of science fiction writing. Section two provides a history of science fiction literature, including short biographies of…

The purpose of this study was to determine the critical and pedagogical emphases of professionally superior high school literature teachers. Almost 100 reportedly effective lesson plans (submitted by 63 teachers) were evaluated by the use of a classification scale which was established from five conceptions of literature identified in professional…

By identifying literary devices found in adult literature and then analyzing children's writing for these same devices, it was hoped that new insight would be gained into the elements of children's writings. Five stories per grade level were selected from grades two through six from seven Memphis elementary schools. The children's stories were…

Recommends using C. Achebe's English language novel, "Things Fall Apart," in a unit on tragedy. Provides plot summary and topics for discussion of cultural values and socialization. Notes that besides illustrating character traits, themes and plot structure of the tragic genre, the novel provides an opportunity for learning Nigerian…

Considers President Reagan's address to the nation on February 5, 1981, concerning the state of the economy, as a contemporary secular version of the jeremiad, a rhetorical form that has persisted in America since colonial times. Describes Reagan's skillful use of the genre to motivate public response to what he viewed as an economic crisis. (NKA)

Reports on three studies that investigated the knowledge gained by students, ranging from grade 3 to graduate school level, from exposure to single examples of literary types. Concludes that students of all ages showed evidence of some pick up of rhetorical knowledge, although of limited complexity. Contains materials used in the study. (FL)

Working reflectively with the whole self entails harnessing artistic talents alongside other talents. If practice itself is an art, then reflection upon it is also an artistic process (Bleakley 1999; Winter et al. 1999). Expressive and explorative writing relies on habitual communicating medium, words, gives validity, form and coherence over time…

The achievements and fictional exploits of Davy (or David) Crockett have entered the American imagination--it is difficult to distinguish what he did and said from what has been attributed to him. And it is also difficult to discuss the influence of the frontier on the American temperament without reference to David Crockett. This lesson plan…

Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) has been around in various forms for over 40 years. While this subject has received much study in elementary schools, the influence of SSR on typical, non-at-risk high school students' reading habits appears to be lacking. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of SSR on ninth grade students' recreational…

Presents two separate interviews on one topic. William Styron and James West discuss West's biography of Styron from the vantage points of subject and biographer. Styron reveals some of the painful incidents in his life and West delineates how these have influenced Styron's work. Includes several photographs. (MJP)

Contends that elementary teachers should use literature in their classrooms to teach essential social studies concepts. Describes types of literature useful in the social studies classroom. Includes recommended children's books for each of eight categories of literature. (CFR)

Various techniques for providing reader's advisory services in public libraries are discussed, including managing the reader's advisory interview, writing annotations for booklists, preparing topical and effective displays, genre cataloging, holding book talks and reviews, using library space effectively, and utilizing e-mail discussion groups to…

Contends that war fiction published by U.S. women has evolved as a genre of its own in the twentieth century. Asserts that the common element that unites this otherwise diverse body of literature is the constant reminder that women as well as men are participants and victims in war. (CFR)

A Library Journal survey of 2000 public libraries investigated adult book expenditures and circulation. This article presents statistics on purchasing power and circulation, sources used for purchasing decisions, where books are purchased, top circulating genres, topics of increased patron and librarian interest, topics being weeded and replaced,…

"Chronicle of Higher Education" presents an abundant source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators. This May 14, 2004 issue of "Chronicle for Higher Education" includes the following articles: (1) "The Gorgeous Order of Things, Infinitely Expressed" (Jackson, William J.);…