A 4-week study at Goshen (Indiana) Middle School examined the internal and external factors affecting Hispanic student achievement. Data were collected through classroom observation, student interviews, and a survey of Latino parents. Although teacher responses to Hispanic student classroom participation were always positive, student responses,…

Research has shown a decline in motivation and performance for many children as they move from elementary school into middle school; however, research has also shown that the nature of motivational change on entry to middle school depends on characteristics of the learning environment in which students find themselves. This Digest outlines some…

Describes the art education program in Moncton, New Brunswick (Canada) from elementary school through senior high, emphasizing art as a serious discipline that demands a coherent structure, definite objectives, sequential learning skills, reasonable expectations of both product and process, a regular place in the timetable, and trained teachers…

In a year-long study of classroom reform toward more constructivist teaching and learning practices, 125 rural seventh graders engaged in design-based inquiry and learned research and communication skills by designing hypermedia materials to teach peers. Data from one participating teacher illustrate the evolution of new instructional practices…

Explores the changing expectations of students towards a women professor throughout the course of her pregnancy. The professor made a conscious effort to standardize her classroom behavior throughout the course. Nonetheless, students attributed negative reactions and a general decline in her effectiveness to the debilitating effects of the…

Argues that middle school educators and administrators need professional preparation specific to middle school students' unique social, emotional, and educational needs. Focuses on the importance of the principal to gain appropriate training and foster professional staff preparation and development. Contains recommendations for creating…

Discusses how the whole-language process provides an authentic approach to lifelong learning. Includes discussions of Cambourne's conditions for learning; Holdaway's natural learning model; Goodman's miscue analysis research; whole-language theory; the role of teachers, students, and the community in language arts; and the role of the classroom…

Identifies charisma and inspirational leadership as the most important characteristics of transformational leaders. Discusses how middle and secondary school music conductors can use the transformational leadership model. Summarizes key components of this model including positive modeling, sharing vision, and empowering others. Provides relevant…

Examined link between Chinese teachers' beliefs about classroom aggression and withdrawal and their support of middle schoolers, and student behaviors, peer acceptance, and self-perceived social competence. Found that teachers' aversion to aggression and empathy toward withdrawal enhanced self-perceptions of both aggressive and withdrawn children…

Attitudes of 174 teachers and 402 junior high school and high school students were compared with respect to various critical dimensions of classroom grading in Israel. Overall, data confirm the hypothesis that grading is ingrained in school culture, with students and teachers internalizing similar beliefs during school acculturation. (SLD)

Discusses difficulties of overcoming classism, racism, and sexism in the classroom. Addresses hostile reactions by white male students, silencing and marginalization, and the "inappropriate other"--a minority or female in the traditionally white male role of professor. Stresses that gender and race are inseparable parts of identity,…

Discusses a study in which fifth and sixth grade students joined with novice teachers to discuss literature in cooperative study groups. Finds students engaged in dialogue with teachers and peers, constructing meanings, revealing personal involvement, and actively inquiring about and evaluating the literature. Includes an excerpt from the…

Contends that student alienation cannot be solved by improved instructional methodology or curriculum content reform. Argues that the citizenship education goals of social studies cannot be taught effectively because societal values do not support schools or teachers. Provides five suggestions on policies that might address these issues. (CFR)

Applies educational theories of Paulo Freire to social studies curriculum development and instruction. Contends that education either functions as an instrument to integrate young people into the current system or becomes an instrument to achieve freedom and progress. Argues that social studies teachers and students should become partners in…

Discusses four principles involved in teaching beginning reading most effectively, related to: (1) the literacy environment at home, child care, and school; (2) experiences to develop concepts and related vocabulary; (3) developing understanding of purposes of print; and (4) enjoying books and being read to. Discusses how these principles can be…