This study examined the advantages of using written language portfolios for authentic assessment in a third-grade special education classroom. Portfolios included data from students, teachers, parents, and the teacher's journal. Portfolios provided insights about how students thought about their writing, offered new understandings of parents'…

Special education teachers (n=108) were assessed to determine whether standards for acceptable student behavior differed as a function of either placement or instructional level of schooling. Differences were found only at the elementary level, where teachers in less restrictive placements (such as resource rooms) expressed more rigorous…

Interviews with 32 Mexican-descent college students examined teacher actions in high school that had impacted students' academic success. Positive and negative teacher actions were described in the areas of cultural understanding, stereotypes, expectations of students, and exclusion from or inclusion in classroom activities. Recommendations for…

Examines the nature/prevalence of sexual content on television and in magazines. Describes theoretical mechanisms outlining potential socializing influences. Reviews evidence indicating that frequent/involved exposure to sexually oriented media genres relates to greater acceptance of stereotypical/casual attitudes about sex, higher expectations…

Attempts to analyze, through questionnaires and interviews with students, parents, and teachers, some of the factors contributing to differences between male and female student scoring on the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). The GCSE is a British comprehensive, national core curriculum examination. Discusses the reasons why…

Examined the universality and uniqueness of educational value orientations of American and Chinese physical education teachers. Surveys indicated that though there were some differences between cultures, both Chinese and American teachers valued discipline mastery and self-actualization value orientations. (SM)

Provides a succinct and useful overview to arguments, pro and con, concerning ability grouping for students. Briefly summarizes the research for and against heterogenous grouping, noting that most of the research is focused on very narrow and specific applications. Argues for an open-minded and flexible approach. (MJP)

A study investigated how the social process and context of multidisciplinary teams in two rural, southern elementary schools inhibited the unbiased discussion of African American students' psychoeducational functioning. Although ethnic bias was not documented, four themes related to the teams social context and bias in the problem-solving process…

There is a "gaping separation" in academic achievement between minority group children and White children. Research shows that minority group children can achieve when the following issues are addressed: high expectations geared to clear standards, timely intervention for struggling students, excellent teachers with good ethnic…

A Portland (Oregon) elementary school, formerly designated a local "crisis school," has improved academic achievement through a combination of Total Quality Management, high expectations, and tough love. Quarterly assessments enable staff to keep track of each student and guide instructional decisions. Small classes, on-site professional…

At a Spokane (Washington) elementary school, ethnically diverse students perform well even though most come from difficult, low-income family environments. High expectations, student behavioral "self-management," a supportive environment, and teacher collaboration are key to this success. Multiple approaches to teaching cater to…

High school academies are three-year programs offering educationally disadvantaged students an integrated academic and vocational education, extensive counseling and peer support, and employment opportunities. These models to combat dropping out and facilitate transition from school to work are joint efforts of school districts, local businesses,…

Tests a cultural resources/social interaction model of gatekeeping by school teachers using data for seventh and eighth grade students in a city school district. Results indicate informal academic standards by which teachers reward general skills, habits, and styles, accounting for course grade differentials observed for gender, ethnicity, and…

Findings from a study, based on observation of dyadic teacher-student interaction in high school science classes, indicate that teachers of all levels of experience tend to interact more with male students than female students, and both newly prepared and experienced teachers lack the skills needed to alter their gender-biased behaviors. (IAH)

Contends that few educational issues rival the California Learning Assessment System (CLAS) for comment, controversy, and confrontation. Defines the CLAS test and discusses its characteristics, anticipated student responses, and scoring procedures. Outlines four implications for instructional methods. (CFR)