Argues humorously for "constructive ambiguity." Includes amusing rules for vocabulary, punctuation, style, clarity, and bibliographies. Ends with the rule, "When one says nothing of consequence, it is difficult to contradict one's self." (EL)

Discusses how metaphors are most effective at generating readers'"epiphany" or insight. (HTH)

A whimsical personal narrative that explores the image educators have of prime time television and its effect on the author. (CRH)

Updates the list of classic excuses students make to teachers when their paper is late--this time in reference to the mishaps that may occur with a computer. (CRH)

Suggests that childrens' responses to traditional methods of teaching literature are a function of their developmental status, which parallels their preference for particular types of jokes. (KS)

As educators, we often take ourselves a bit too seriously, so veteran educator and illustrator Aaron Bacall offers a little perspective with these lighthearted cartoons. Whether used as overheads for meetings or as an individual break in a busy day, this collection of whimsical glimpses at staff development will provide a moment to laugh and add a…

This book presents classroom-tested ideas to help teachers make teaching and learning more enjoyable, noting that humor can be a positive force in teaching, learning, and health. The book is designed to: help teachers see the importance of a pleasant, good-humored environment; convince teachers that laughter can be an essential element in…

This reference encyclopedia contains information on both the historical and contemporary aspects of humor and comedy in the United States. Arranged in an A-to-Z format, the encyclopedia is a collection of article-length essays that examine humor from many perspectives, from defining terms; to providing information on humor writers, comedians, and…

Tongue-in-cheek advice directed to the problems of excessive perspiration and underarm stains. (For the article to which this one responds, see the American School Board Journal, February 1974 pp. 29-31.) (WM)

A study of the development of 6- to 12-year-old children's appreciation of verbal jokes was conducted within the framework of the incongruity and resolution theory of humor. Results revealed age differences indicating that older children appreciated both structural components while younger children appreciated the incongruity structure. (ST)

To the author joy suggests an inner harmony with one's physical and human environment. Pupils, teachers, and principals--all are constantly reaching for that inner harmony. (Author/CB)

Article consists of amusing anecdotes about the diversions and individual problems the teacher is confronted with when trying to teach. (MM)

Presents a taxonomy of formal features of television and examines ways in which these features are used in current productions for children. Coding categories for formal features include action, pace, visual events, and auditory features. Concludes that commercial producers stress formal features as much or more than content. (PD)

Argues that the humorous books that teenagers choose to read are appropriate in relation to their interests, maturity, and experience. (AEA)