Provides a rationale for the shift from textbook to thematic instruction in middle schools. Describes a six-session staff development model for thematic instruction that covers the utility and applicability of this approach, development of thematic units, use of literature in such units, assessment of student progress, and implementation of…

This article describes how to structure a unit on historical fiction around a creative arts center that allows students to explore and express themes they read about. Included are short descriptions of books; suggested materials for a creative arts center; and related activities in music, art, drama, and creative writing. (IAH)

"Lance" and "Leana" are two posterboard groundhog characters used in a language experience program with elementary students with mild disabilities. The activity provides an opportunity for students to brainstorm, organize their thoughts, and make complete sentences. Suggestions for construction, use, and adaptations are offered. (DB)

Describes a full-time, six-week block which immerses preservice teachers in a self-directed, collaborative, transdisciplinary learning adventure that they translate into a teaching adventure. Shares a vision of what teacher education can be by describing examples of learning contexts, the supportive curriculum model, and the effects these…

Advocates synergistic pedagogy, in which all the school subjects are related and taught in such a manner that they are almost inseparable. Demonstrates how this might be done with an interdisciplinary theme on the stars. (SR)

Teacher-directed content, immovable subject divisions, and rigid scope and sequences perpetuate mismatch between middle school curricula and young adolescents' needs. Teachers at one Florida middle school are experimenting with Coalition of Essential Schools processes such as backward curriculum design and units of joy. Curriculum becomes an open…

Reform efforts have renewed attention to science and mathematics integration and brought to the surface varied definitions of "integrated,""interdisciplinary," and "thematic." In an attempt to clarify the meaning of integration, eight manuscripts are presented that clearly indicate that the inconsistent use of language continues to exist and has…

Presents a model for developing theme-based, interdisciplinary, integrated curriculum. Model includes a theme-creation phase and an activity-refinement phase. The integrated continuum model is intended to be used by curriculum developers to facilitate the creation of powerful interdisciplinary lessons. (Author/SJR)

Describes a thematic unit of study, carried out in a kindergarten class, on traditional aspects of Mexican life. Describes class activities, unit objectives, and student responses in the unit involving geography, art, literacy, and Mexican culture. (SR)

Presents an activity in which students attempt to keep water at a constant temperature. Helps students in grades three to six hone their skills in prediction, observation, measurement, data collection, graphing, data analysis, and communication. (JRH)

A Chicago elementary school has been integrating health and nutrition concepts into its curriculum for several years. Teachers in early childhood classes have developed creative, hands-on units (such as preparing and devouring apple concoctions) and field trips to the grocery store. Lessons are often reinforced with free information resources,…

Describes Literature Learning Ladders, a project that uses books for children and young adults as the focal point for technology-rich thematic activities. Explains the use of Internet Web sites to find book information as well as sties that demonstrate how resources can be used as part of technology-based classroom activities. (LRW)

This article presents as a case study an exceptional third grade teacher who manages to challenge each child, from the child with a disability to the most gifted, to perform at a high level. The case study examines the classroom environment, the theme-based integrated curriculum, perceptions of participants, family learning, and school support.…

In this article, the author describes another teacher's unique approach to teaching science in one unusual second grade classroom. Immediately upon entering the classroom, the author was surrounded by an array of colors, shapes, and objects typically found in a forest. A multitude of puppets, stuffed animals, and live animals filled the classroom.…

This article links colonial/neocolonial and feminist literature with discourses on international students to examine how a discourse of imperialism constructs and represents international students in U.S. universities. Applying a critical discourse analysis to 78 articles published in the "Chronicle of Higher Education" between 1996 and 1999, the…