Information on censorship problems in Arizona junior high schools (grades 7-8) was gathered through a questionnaire survey of 50 English teachers in 39 schools. (See also ED 026 396 for information on high school censorship problems in Arizona.) Statistical data were collected on the number of schools, teachers, and books involved in direct or…

The awesome task of teaching the English novel in one semester at a small college is illustrated and made more feasible in this concise article. A selected group of novels is commented upon specifically, comprising a total volume of more than 4,100 pages of assigned reading. Using the incentive of higher grades, the author provides two other lists…

Discusses the need for Spanish language materials in public libraries, and describes support systems that aid in the selection of materials. A directory of 50 vendors of Spanish language books, with brief information about the scope of materials and services they make available, is provided. (CLB)

Presents the perspectives of a high school librarian and a high school English teacher on the issue of censorship in their schools. (MM)

Describes a Story Reading Program and Shared Book Experience to improve the language and reading skills of multiply handicapped children. Concludes that the employment of multiple stimuli--large print, pictures, speech, and signs--in story reading activities increases children's attention skills, improves receptive and expressive language use, and…

This book finds that although censorship of children's literature is currently more prevalent than ever, protest tactics have changed--in the 1990s the censors are more organized and while sexuality is still a concern, books are now attacked for being "Satanic,""anti-family," and "un-Christian." The book interviews…

This paper addresses the analysis of surveys administered to prekindergarten through eighth grade students and the analysis of parent and teacher interviews in an effort to determine why children read, what they prefer to read, and how adults can further motivate them to read. The premise of the paper is that attitudes (feelings toward an…

This paper focuses on a 1997 pilot project carried out in five secondary schools in South Africa that examined children's reading and information use. This study (n=958) was part of a larger study from 1995 and 1996 carried out in the United Kingdom. The primary goal was to examine what young people are reading at the end of the 20th century. The…

Textbooks and children's literature tend to mirror society. A study was made of race and class bias in 32 children's novels about the American Revolution published between 1889 and 1976. The treatment of blacks, women, and lower-class groups not only reflects but also perpetuates bias. (JN)

Stresses that despite their commitment to aesthetic objectivity in the reading and evaluation of literature, teachers should actively explore and discuss with students the racist and ethnic stereotyping which is characteristic of many literary classics. (RAE)

Examines Margaret Edwards' contribution to young adult services against the backdrop of contemporary ideas and practices. The following issues of young adult librarianship are discussed: Edwards and young adult literature; the balance between readers' advisory and reference services; and the role of the young adult librarian. (JLB)

Studies curriculum challenges by religious conservatives to the "Impressions" reading series in California. Many parents thought the series promoted satanism, witchcraft, and disrespect toward parents. Data from 22 school districts, 4 of which dropped the series, illustrate the complex nature of such challenges and highlight school…

This collection of short descriptions of activities provides tips for teaching elementary students. Activities focus on reading and book selection, differences between rain and snow, cooking bread snakes, place value, family heritage, clothing from around the world, and interviews with war veterans. (SM)

Asserts that using children's literature in social studies can enrich the course content and help achieve prescribed objectives. Maintains that well-planned activities based on carefully chosen books are necessary for successful implementation of this approach. Recommends 23 books in 4 subject categories: (1) cultural studies; (2) geographical…

Describes an AIDS-centered curriculum for a composition class in a New York City community college. Describes selecting a text, assignments, attending a conference, guest speakers, and the research paper. Notes that the subject of AIDS not only provokes reflective writing and much class discussion but also compels writers to express and sometimes…