Part of a series of articles entitled "Environment and the Child.

Reports on trigger scripting, a method of using performed literature to stimulate discussion and understanding of the values of other cultures. Used taped scenes dramatized by interpreters of John Nichols' novel, "The Milagro Beanfield War," followed by questions for discussion. (PD)

The relationship between linguistic processes, cognitive activities, and social structures is explored by examining the decision-making of committees of educators deciding whether or not to place students in special education programs. Differential treatment of committee members is explained by the authority their reports gain by their language…

A study investigating a mother's use of discussion of picture books as a language acquisition strategy is reported, and the usefulness of establishing routine items and constructions in such discussion is examined. Use of the situation-specific approach to studying input language is also discussed. (MSE)

Assessment of class participation can be used effectively in student evaluation, but it should not become subjective, impressionistic, and unreliable. It provides an opportunity for peer and self-evaluation, but refinements in techniques and criteria are needed. (MSE)

Examined the effect of coaching on leaderless group discussion performance. Female undergraduates (N=36) participated in six-person assigned role leaderless group discussions. Results showed that students in the full coaching conditions were rated significantly higher than students in the errant or naive conditions. (Author)

Two children's book editors, an author, and the director of a children's book research center briefly state their views about what constitutes a "good" book for children. Activities of the Cooperative Children's Book Center in Wisconsin, where librarians, teachers, students, and University of Wisconsin faculty discuss new children's…

Distinguishes English teaching as science from English teaching as art. Opts for teaching as art. (JL)

Describes a seminar for experienced classroom teachers in which participants schedule weekly conversations with other teachers to explore deeply one teacher's teaching practices and theories. Goals are to appreciate the art of teaching, to gain release from isolation, and to attain more congruence between theories and practice. (Author/JM)

Discusses a model for training supervisors, helpers and other leaders of small group discussions with a specific goal. Describes the model's five stages: (1) trainer models leader behavior, (2) subgroup members practice leading, (3) subgroup's behavior processed, (4) critiques leader's behavior, and (5) total group shares observations and…

Reveals that reticence does not necessarily impede group process; however, reticent individuals are seen as less effective participants and they are less likely to emerge as group leaders. Reviews research on reticence in group interaction and provides suggestions to instructors of small group courses on how to help reticent students participate.…

Three approaches to the problems of troubled and disturbed youths are described: therapeutic discussion groups with mental health professionals; a resource room model based on W. Glasser's reality therapy in which students earn points for responsible behavior and task completion; and an integrated approach to drug and alcohol abuse. (CL)

Discusses counselor feelings of loss due to client departure from therapy. Describes components of loss within a five-stage model including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Outlines strategies for coping with counselor loss. Suggests feelings of loss are natural. (RC)