Discusses methods of improving the performance of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics addressed include the theoretical basis of ILSs; appropriate level of instruction; academic learning time; motivation; quality of instruction; a study of elementary students' use of ILSs; individualized and homogeneous group activities; mixed-ability…

Describes a study that examined the effects of cooperative versus individual computer-based instruction on the performance of high- and average-ability fourth-grade students. Effects of learner and program control are investigated; student attitudes toward instructional content, learning in groups, and partners are discussed; and further research…

Presents a unit of three lessons to teach Newton's Laws of Motion. After rotating through learning centers, answering questions, and recording observations, students are asked to generate a "class law" that explains the scientific phenomenon they observed. (MDH)

Describes "Family Computers," an educational program developed by EQUALS that brings families together weekly to have fun with mathematics while using computers. Discusses software selection, provides a lesson plan for grades 4-8, and presents 7 tips for instructors. (MDH)

Preservice elementary teachers worked cooperatively to explore the relationship between the measure of the central angle and the number of sides of regular polygons using the reflection of a line in a hinged mirror. The experience involved conjecture and experimentation, communication, and building connections between science, geometry, and…

Presents four hands-on and computer-based activities to develop measurement skills. Students examine, measure, compare, and contrast the area, perimeter, and volume of geometric figures using concrete materials and computer spreadsheets. (MDH)

Suggestions on providing home-based support in student development and study skills focus on study skills inventories, time management, reference materials, reading rate, oral reports, test taking, note taking/outlining, listening, visual material, writing reports, and library usage. (DB)

Discusses the results of two national studies of high school literature programs that examined the relationship between school library media programs and successful literature programs. Topics addressed include collection size; accessibility, including networks; title availability, including those by women and minority authors; and teachers' uses…

Presents an activity that integrates science, environmental education, art, and social studies. Students identify and research an endangered species and construct a totem pole depicting the species using a recyclable material. (MDH)

Describes two activities for helping elementary and middle school students develop energy consciousness: (1) Energy Chains and (2) The Energy Tank. The Energy Tank is an activity that has students build and race a two-liter soda bottle to reinforce the basic laws of energy conservation. (PR)

Presents four techniques to bring current science controversy into the classroom: (1) daily reviews and discussions of current science articles; (2) weekly group analysis of an assigned article; (3) individual student reports of a science controversy; and (4) a yearlong cooperative group study of a science issue. (MDH)

Shares how writing can be used as a primary intervention vehicle to provide for skill development, strategic thinking, and building self-esteem in a clinical setting. (MG)

Explains a class project in which high school seniors designed a "Trivial Pursuit" game focused on the Civil War. Students developed questions in chronological categories then divided into teams to play the game. Stresses student involvement and active learning while creating and playing the game. Includes sample game card and references…

Described are some of the visualization techniques employed in the computer-animated videotapes generated through the blending of commentary, animated imagery, music, and special effects. Instructions for procurement are included for these tapes, which are produced by Project MATHEMATICS! at the California Institute of Technology. (JJK)

Describes a community internship program in which music education sophomores develop their own teaching ideas. Claims the most powerful lessons are those the student-interns discover on their own. Says leadership role provides preservice teachers with opportunities to adapt to many situations in the process of learning how to teach. Includes…