Presents the results from two surveys of Ohio and Oklahoma teachers. Focuses on a sample of 250 public schools in each area. Examines the extent to which K-12 schools are ready to implement Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Offers responses from the surveys. (CMK)

Explores teen-initiated communication with parents about same-sex attraction, coming out, and adolescent sexuality. Reports the findings of a qualitative study on teen and parent reactions as well as a number of strategies which emerged that may help maintain healthy relationships in the face of developing sexuality. (Author/SD)

Ethnographic fieldwork in six junior high schools in East Java, Indonesia, focused on local responses to a national policy devolving authority over the curriculum to the schools. Interviews and observations in the schools revealed little change in teacher actions. The objectives of decentralization clashed with deeply rooted ideas about authority,…

Applying item response theory, and the Rasch model in particular, to measure trends and examine policy coherence in state education reform shows a change in the picture of state leadership and a generalized pattern of policy making among the states. Using item response theory in policy analysis is explored. (SLD)

Discusses the manipulation of various grammatical devices in a Spanish short story. Points out that variations in the use of verbal aspect mark stages in the development of the plot and that modal and lexical choices reinforce its reflexive and repetitive nature. Argues that this story exemplifies creative use of grammatical choices. (13…

Shows that audience recall of AIDS public service announcements (PSAs) is related to message appeal types, cultural identity, and gender. Finds that strong emotional appeals are better remembered than rational ones; U.S. viewers recalled more than international participants; and college women recalled more than college men in general, and…

Describes how a Norwegian high school student constructed meaning about a poem with the help of her interactions with two peers in a response group that integrated writing, reading, speaking, and listening. (SM)

Different methodologies for linking tests across languages are reviewed and evaluated, focusing on monolingual item response theory, bilingual group designs, and matched monolingual group designs. These methods, although not without weaknesses, are superior for promoting score comparability than methods that rely on translation or expert judgment…

Describes the common symptoms of stress exhibited by young children including: (1) social or behavioral; (2) physical; (3) emotional; (4) cognitive; and (5) language. Addresses causes of stress, which typically represent change, fear, or loss in children. Offers strategies for easing children's stress including muscle relaxation, deep breathing,…

Explains that the core materials used during literature-based instruction are narrative and expository works. Notes that this type of instruction, which has gained increased emphasis in reading research and practice, provides authentic learning experiences and activities by using literature to teach and foster literacy. Reviews pertinent research…

Suggests ways to increase creativity in individuals and in team members who are involved with developing video productions. Topics discussed include freedom of expression; setting goals and objectives; visualization; laser video discs; instant cameras; the function of evaluation; and the impact of technological developments on audience…

Shares how the author designed reading activities to increase students' understanding of nonfiction by adhering to three principles: purpose, classification, and collaboration. Recounts how students responded to the reading materials and each other as they developed an understanding of the information available to them. (MG)

Describes a flexible format for a literature unit which avoids the problems associated with a structure which is too rigid or allows too much latitude for students. Notes that the students produce some excellent thinking and writing. (MG)

Shares the attempts of one teacher to structure a program that allows students to learn and grow as a community of readers and writers through the use of a response-centered curriculum. (MG)

Argues that, although a little daily practice substantially improves reading proficiency, reading should be viewed as only the beginning of the literature experience. Suggests that interactions with books can continue through many other forms of response. Annotates 22 examples of children's books that invite dramatization, writing, art, music,…