The concept of excellence is explored in relation to various dimensions. Since the time of ancient Greece, there has been difficulty in defining "the Good," or the nature of human excellence. It is suggested that "the Good" of which excellence is an important part is a fundamental concept of the human personality, and that…

THE ENGLISH TEACHER CAN ROUSE STUDENTS OUT OF UNTHINKING ACCEPTANCE AND PASSIVITY BY PROVIDING THEM WITH CREATIVE LANGUAGE EXPERIENCES DESIGNED TO SHAPE THEM INTO CURIOUS AND RESPONSIVE INDIVIDUALS. TO FIND A PERSPECTIVE ON TEACHING CREATIVELY THE MANY FACETS OF LANGUAGE, LITERATURE, AND COMPOSITION, TEACHERS SHOULD LOOK TO STATEMENTS MADE BY…

The relationship between creativity and intelligence is discussed; and the position that intellect is not synonymous with the ability to respond in the usual logical way to a standard test item is developed. This logical (convergent) way of thinking, measured by IQ tests, is contrasted with the creative (divergent) way of thinking, measured by…

In this collection, numerous professional writers who have worked with students in public school classrooms offer ideas for helping students learn to write creatively. The ideas are grouped into six major sections: "Teaching Writing,""Writing Ideas" (gimmicks, letters and dialogues, writing from observation, writing and literature), "Drama, Film,…

This collection of speeches is concerned with the fine arts and crafts programs in elementary and secondary schools. An introduction outlines the problem of aesthetics and fine arts education. Speakers (1) propose a humanities program for students of all abilities; (2) consider whether marching bands serve an aesthetic purpose in the high schools;…

This is the second of a two volume report of a Day Care Inventory. The author presents an evaluation of the Inventory and make recommendations for changes, deletions and additions so that more satisfactory measures will be available for use in the study of the impact of day care on child development. The evaluations are based upon the findings…

This address examines the personal experiences and attitudes of a language teacher during the 1960's, exploring the then commonly held notions of "creativity" with a view toward stimulating professional reappraisal of the term and its pedagogical implications. The author suggests that the notion of the teacher "guiding creativity" must yield to a…

This booklet was produced for teachers in the hope that the philosophy of multiple talents, and productive thinking will be an aid in the development of future citizens. In the introduction, Calvin W. Taylor discusses talents as the central focus in all classrooms, new tests for identifying important talents heretofore neglected, and the need of a…

Discusses early experiences of children with literature, and the development of and growth in their response to literature. Argues for a response-centered, rather than criticism-centered, curriculum. (SRT)

Anything built to last needs a clear plan, a solid foundation, the right tools, and strong structural integrity to withstand threatening elements that arise. Unfortunately, most school reform programs do not meet these basic requirements and crumble as quickly as they appear. To offset such mishaps, this guide empowers the reader to be an…

Noting that Maria Montessori pioneered early childhood education (ECE) reform in Italy, and the surge in innovation in ECE after WWII, this videotape describes the early childhood system in the city of Pistoia, Italy, known for its high-quality and innovative services. The 30-minute video offers footage from 2 of the 9 full-day infant toddler…

Argues that the arts are basic to educational development, as they provide the tools and skills that are central to early language development including story, metaphor, rhyme and rhythm, binary structuring and mediation, image formation from words, affective abstraction, and others that underlie more complex learning. (Author)

Presents a model of instructional design which links cognitive learning theory and instructional prescriptions. Topics discussed include knowledge types and knowledge acquisition; memory system components; learning time; learning objectives, including skills, cognitive strategies, and creative processes; instructional methods that relate to…

Argues that student creative writing is stimulated by painting and other visual art. Describes a seven-step process in which students view painting and other visual arts and then write poetry. Includes suggested artworks and excerpts of poetry written by students. (CFR)

Intended for the K-2 classroom, this book provides teachers with ideas and materials for teaching the writing process. The book contains reproducible thinking charts and graphic organizers including mind mapping, prewriting story structure, and topic, content, and editing charts. Advice for classroom management and the organization and structure…