Outlines a set of terms which can be used (in sequencing writing assignments from simple to complex) to make distinctions between kinds of sequences and notions of complexity. Shows how these terms allow teachers to understand the logic of various sequences, compare and contrast related sequences, and evaluate the concept of assignment sequence.…

Argues the need for additional experience in language for social action in contexts where English teachers can provide scaffolding, monitoring and intervention. Concludes that students must have experiences in real writing contexts that lead them to face the linguistic and other demands which will enable them to develop the competencies they need.…

Describes a poster assignment developed by the teaching assistants at the University of Washington (Seattle) for use in introductory geography courses. Discusses the purpose, design, implementation and value of the exercise in the instruction and promotion of geography. (Author/LS)

Examines Madeline Hunter's "model" of teaching and compares it to other models. The model involves a sequential arrangement of seven steps: (1) anticipatory set; (2) objective and purpose; (3) input; (4) modeling; (5) checking for understanding; (6) guided practice; and (7) independent practice. Provides reason for and examples of each…

Argues that basic writing teachers should think of their students as seekers who are coming from different places and going different directions, each carrying different burdens and needing different tools. Presents a series of writing assignments using the process approach to writing. (RS)

Investigates the effects of cognitive mapping on written summarization and comprehension of expository text. Concludes that mapping appears to assist students in: (1) developing procedural knowledge resulting in more effective written summarization and (2) identifying and using supporting details in their essays. (MG)

Results are reported from a study, involving 35 female undergraduates, which examined the correlation between the health of the students, as measured by self-reported incidence of illness and directly observable physiological (blood pressure) measures, and the frequency and perceived stress of examinations and assignments. (IAH)

Environmental science articles submitted for extra credit by 281 of 677 students in introductory ecology courses were examined to find what types of magazines were used, the range of topics, and which type of student responded. (MKR)

Finds that case assignments used in a college business composition course generally produced more effective writing products than did traditional model assignments. Suggests that the writing processes and attitudes involved in the case assignments were highly sensitive to audience and context, whereas those involved in the traditional assignments…

Describes an exercise designed for K-6 grade levels based on books where the characters undergo transformation. Explains that students should write a story in which the main character goes through a transformation, and then act out the story. Emphasizes that younger students may not pay attention to the "why" or "how" of the…

Discusses a literacy-enhancement program for undereducated university staff members tutored by college students taking a composition course on literacy. Focuses on the essays of one college student to illustrate how the sequence of writing assignments in the course fostered the reading and writing processes of academic literacy. (SR)

Describes an assignment that provides an alternative to the end of the chapter test. Students instead are asked to write a chapter of the text clarifying their ideas and explaining the material in a manner that a student unfamiliar with the subject of the chapter could understand. (ZWH)

Argues that technical communicators must be prepared to communicate via multiple media, including video. Describes a technical scriptwriting course that develops skills useful in several media. Discusses pedagogical strategies, three major assignments, reading assignments, client assignments, production diary assignment, and new technology. (SR)

Discusses a unit on performance appraisals, including writing comments to support ratings, drawing conclusions concerning performance, and making recommendations to improve performance. Provides an assignment requiring students to complete an appraisal form. (SR)

Uses central ideas from Roland Barthes's essays on connotative semiotics as a rationale for directing students in technical and professional writing classes to develop the critical reflex to analyze and then make judgments about the values implied by connotative systems. (SR)