Describes draw-on filmmaking as an exciting way to introduce children to the plastic, fluid nature of the film medium, to develop their appreciation and understanding of divergent cinematic techniques and themes, and to invite them into the dream world of filmmaking without the need for a camera. (AEA)

Offered are suggestions to teachers for introducing improvisation into the classroom. Improvisational activities include movement, vocal, and related arts projects. (KC)

The article describes the Teachers of the Talented and Gifted (TAG) program in Fremont, Nebraska, in which two itinerant TAG teachers visit each first- and second-grade classroom once a week for eight weeks to improve gifted identification in the primary grades and to demonstrate creative activities that can be useful to all students. (DLS)

Discusses how children can widen their experiences and also acquire a fresh perspective on their everyday experiences through movement and dance. (CM)

Creative writing should be a spontaneous experience in which primary-age children are free to express their ideas in their own unique ways, unhampered by having to conform to "correct" standards. (NQ)

Suggests that a television program's benefits to three and four year olds can be significantly increased by the presence of an adult to bridge the gap between actual television performance and limited attention spans. (MH)

Besides making useful and decorative projects, nature crafts encourage participants to explore and become aware of the world around them, which can lead to pursuits in the natural sciences, extensive collections, or career choices. Offers 14 guidelines for including nature crafts in outdoor programming, and suggests 16 projects. (TD)

Describes how kindergarten children experienced the stages involved in the ceramic process in 3 30-minute class periods. Students created freeform, textured pendants which they glazed and fired. (KM)

Discusses the "socio-play" philosophy of drama education as practiced in the Soviet Union. Outlines the basic structure of the Soviet educational system. Recounts a Soviet educator's practice of socio-play philosophy. (SR)

A 22-year longitudinal study of the "Just Suppose" Test is reported. Five criteria of later achievement were correlated with such test measures as fluency, originality, and emotional expression. Correlation coefficients were statistically significant in 27 of the 35 cells with the overall Creativity Index being most predictive of…

The first step in helping students to think more creatively is to create a safe and inviting atmosphere. A discussion of the basic skills of creativity: fluency, originality, flexibility and elaboration, lays the foundation for suggestions for developing creative thinking within the framework of the existing curriculum. (JD)

Explains the value of using movies to teach students some acting principles. Analyzes two recent films, "Crimson Tide" and "The Bridges of Madison County," and develops some acting exercises based on the two movies. Describes some of the differences and similarities between film and theater. Argues that Alfred Hitchcock's…

Describes classroom activities for elementary school students that (1) encourage geographical knowledge of the United States and other countries; (2) stimulate interest in inventions and the invention process; (3) encourage learning about snakes and their habitat; and (4) get students to be attentive. (MDM)

An account of personal reasons for participating in the craft of smocking leads to generalizations about the social and cultural meaning of crafts as a community activity. (SK)

Suggests many benefits that latchkey children can attain from starting their own gardens. Whether children grow vegetables and herbs in their backyard or in containers, they will learn practical skills and may be able to sell their produce for cash. (MDM)