This paper discusses narrative as a culturally significant speech genre which can be analyzed to reveal important aspects of a culture's code, particularly its expectations for conduct. The paper argues that through an analysis of narratives an understanding of one important aspect of a culture's code, specifically, that aspect which deals with a…

Effects of dramatic play on children's narrative competence were investigated among 36 second-graders. Children were read a familiar folktale and then "played" the story, discussed it, or drew a picture about it. They were then asked to retell the story either to an informed or to a naive listener. It was hypothesized that (1) more…

Much of the current controversy in the area of story theory derives from a failure to make clear the distinctions among theories of (1) plan comprehension, (2) narrative comprehension, and (3) story schema. A theory of plan comprehension attempts to account for the ability of humans to interpret the observed actions of another person in terms of…

Many authors of adolescent novels follow a formula when developing a pattern of action. The formula, however, is not predictable and may be one of action, humor, or ideas. (JH)

Eight essays in ethnolinguistics were compiled for this monograph. "Functions of Speech: An Evolutionary Approach" represents an introduction to the application of linguistic knowledge to the historical and sociological study of peoples. "Speech and Language: On the Origins and Foundations of Inequality among Speakers" expands on the theme of…

This study was an investigation of the effects of narration and level of picture detail on children's recall of illustrated materials. Third and sixth grade students were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: groups one and two viewed two 7-frame stories accompanied by oral narration; groups three and four viewed the same stories…

One of the Afro-American writers who spoke out clearly during the postreconstruction period was Albery A. Whitman (1851-1902). A romantic poet, Whitman produced seven volumes of poetry. His profound belief in freedom and equality for his race is expressed forcefully in two long narrative poems, "Not a Man and Yet a Man" and "The…

The use of narrative test reports overcomes the major barrier to understanding reports, understanding the language that is used. Early attempts to utilize the computer in generating narrative reports include: (1) Teaching Information Processing System (TIPS), involving periodic collection of information from students regarding courses, which is…

Notes that although the slave narratives were usually intended to serve in the cause of abolition, not all of them were bitter, unrelieved tirades against the institution of slavery, but rather there were frequently moments of relieving laughter. (Author)

Describes two narrative techniques revealed in a chamber theatre production of Grace Paley fiction in order to argue that chamber theatre, by forcing the audience to attend to particular types of narrative issues, functions as a critical methodology. Substantiates the claim that performance functions as criticism. (SKC)

Recalls the process of rewriting the Uncle Remus stories. Discusses the differences between writing stories and storytelling. Criticizes those who cannot relinquish cultural assumptions. (MS)

Reveals that story grammar research has provided educators with new insights into how children comprehend simple stories. Describes evidence for the existence of story schema, presents results of developmental story grammar research, and recommends teaching strategies based on the research. (RWB)

Argues that in order to counter the current elitism of academic debate, exemplars must be developed which emphasize teaching students the skills required to communicate arguments to inspire citizen activism. Proposes a narrative perspective of debate and offers suggestions regarding how this perspective might be applied and practiced. (MM)

Examines narrative choices in experimental (interpretative) and traditional (analytical) ethnographies. Discusses probability in quantitative and qualitative research, ethnographic narratives as ways of knowing and telling about the world, perspective as a consequence of both narrative voice and stance, and the economics of producing…

Recounts an experience with a "stage prop" bomb made by the art department for a high school production of John Patrick's play, "Anybody Out There?" (EL)