Argues that the introductory history course should focus on teaching students to find, evaluate, and present information in a coherent manner rather than merely present a cluster of facts to be memorized. Suggests an article review assignment which teaches students to effectively evaluate and communicate knowledge. (LS)

Examines how the organization and content of basal reading programs may influence reading instruction. Concludes that: (1) basal programs differ in organizational complexity; (2) they differ in influence on the assignment and reading of material; (3) they emphasize skills; and (4) instructors rely on basal teaching guides to differing degrees. (RS)

Reports on a study of perceived resource scarcity on compliance among 176 college students. Finds that the scarcity manipulation did not differentially affect the proportion who turned in written assignments early but did have a significant effect on the speed with which these students turned in their assignments. (CFR)

Although many students complain that the research-and-write about a favorite scientist is boring, a sixth-grade teacher offers successful alternatives. Through creative writing and hands-on activities, this assignment is made meaningful and fun for students. Excerpts from completed projects and evaluation tips are presented throughout the article.…

Examines benefits of multimedia presentation software for teachers, librarians, and elementary and secondary school students. Discusses an example of two school library media specialists working with an English class using the library's reference collection (print and CD-ROM) and HyperCard. Suggests presentation assignments for various subjects.…

An approach to program assessment taken by one bachelor's in social work (BSW) program involved evaluation of the collective work of randomly chosen seniors on three assignments. Results revealed strengths and weaknesses of the program and led to reexamination of assignments, statements of desired program outcomes, and curriculum changes.…

Explores the development of a literature-based writing unit with computers for at-risk students through the creation of a Literacy Club. Suggests that current technology can provide the incentive required before at-risk students become willing participants in literary experiences. Literary Clubs can provide a rich context for learning to write…

A second-grade teacher studied student development when writing occurred daily in the classroom. Assignments included journal, paragraph, and creative writing. The teacher assumed that with daily writing, reading, and spelling would improve. Results indicated that students' reading and writing improved but not spelling; and with forced daily…

Describes a fourth-grade project at Malcom Price Lab School at the University of Northern Iowa in which students write and produce a community brochure about their hometown, Cedar Falls, Iowa. The brochure provides a "kid's eye-view" of Cedar Falls' history, cultural events, and recreational activities and is distributed by local…

A journalist describes her experiences teaching writing skills at a week-long, high school arts and literary festival on the Crow Reservation and discusses how relating her own story stimulated interest and how a range of activities--walks, readings, discussions, observations and short writings on odd-shaped pieces of paper--lead to final…

Discusses difficulties faced by left-handed children in everyday schoolwork. Highlights include right-handed bias of toys, clothing, and tools; the need for guidance in handwriting; problem areas including domestic science, arts and crafts, and metal and woodwork; left-hand advantages in sports and creative arts; and the European Left-Handers Club…

Describes a study in which one group of community college students expected to be questioned orally and at random in class about a reading assignment, whereas another group expected to volunteer answers. The students expecting questions read more pages and had higher quiz scores. Discusses lack of preparation for lecture classes. (DMM)

Explains how insects can be used to stimulate student writing. Describes how students can create their own systems to classify and differentiate insects. Discusses insect morphology and includes three detailed diagrams. The author provides an extension activity where students hypothesize about the niche of an insect based on its anatomy. (PR)

Describes a nine-week interdisciplinary study of the environment for middle school students, based on the computer simulation "Decisions, Decisions: The Environment," which involves group work, independent work, and a lot of writing. (SR)

Relates a teaching strategy whereby introductory sociology students wrote and analyzed their own stories to create a self-published book. Describes course goals as becoming familiar with sociological perspectives, concepts, strategies, and methods and to develop reading, analytical thinking, and writing skills. Includes discussion of the course…