This digest presents a summary discussion of the value of holding science fairs in the elementary school context. Reasons for conducting science fairs for elementary students are discussed in terms of several learning theories. Developmentally appropriate types of elementary science projects are suggested. Goals for elementary school science fairs…

This bulletin on intellectual growth and development during the adolescent period is a cumulation of (1) a study of the results on certain aptitude tests used in the War Department adapted for secondary schools (2) an analysis of the research studies on the subject of intellectual abilities at the secondary school level. It is published with the…

This paper describes different approaches that have been used in research on reading, and reports on a study of reading comprehension in fourth-, sixth-, and eighth-grade students. Findings confirm that there are distinct age-related developmental levels in children's comprehension of literature. (PP)

A language learning model based on cognitive developmental stages is proposed, and types of ESL learning activities corresponding to the model's levels are identified. Guidelines are proposed for developing an ESL curriculum congruent with the regular elementary school curriculum, and a process for setting up a program scope and sequence is…

Concepts drawn from Transactional Analysis concerning memory, association, and related components of learning theory are discussed. Ego States (Child, Parent, Adult) are described, along with the patterns and responses characteristic of each state. (PP)

Examined influence of teaching methods on content achievement of concrete and formal concepts by students differing in level of operational thought and influence of concrete/formal teaching on the intellectural development of students (N=86 grade 9-10 biology students). Methodology, results, conclusions, and implications are discussed. (Author/JN)

Explores the relationship between early speaking and writing skills by investigating how children use referential ties (personal pronouns, demonstratives, and comparatives) to build coherence in their oral and written stories. Discusses findings and implications for developing children's communicative competency. (PD)

Discusses social development stages of middle childhood and peer-group relations, noting demands of group conformity. Presents aspects of cognitive and physical development as well as implications for providing effective guidance and counseling services. (RC)

Discusses whether formal thought constitutes a structured whole and role of propositional logic in advanced reasoning. Presents aspects of advanced reasoning model, considering hypothesis generation/testing as central processes in intellectual development. Argues that advanced reasoning schemata are linked by these processes and should be…

Offers selected ERIC references on the application of Piagetian theory and the use of Piagetian tasks in beginning reading/language arts instruction. (RL)

The social and interpersonal characteristics of early adolescents are described in relation to puberty and the physical and emotional changes that are experienced by the preteen. Learning characteristics for this age group include problem-solving strategies, self-directed learning, and emerging value systems. (JN)

Describes some of the ways early adolescents respond to reading and thinking tasks and details the development of procedures for observing and analyzing children as they complete such tasks. (FL)

Spatial ability and Piagetian tasks were administered to 80 schooled/non-schooled Fulanis (primarily nomadic and hunters) and agriculturalists (living a settled life). Results indicated that Fulanis develop spatial skills adapted to the ecological demands of their lives and that schooled students performed better on Piagetian tasks than…

The infant's impressions of his environment are viewed by several philosophers, including Jean Piaget. There has been some past tendency to suppose that, prior to the acquisition of language, the infant has no real impressions about his environment. More recent understandings consider that the infant is capable of conceptualization and can express…

Discusses the developmental needs of foster children when they are seperated from their natural parents. Examines stages of separation trauma, including shock, protest, despair, and detachment. Notes suggestions for counseling with foster children, including a foster parent's and educator's view. (RC)