The instructional schedule does affect student grades on the four AP Examinations in this study after they have been adjusted for group differences in student ability. The results from this study generally suggest that students, on average, obtain higher AP grades when instruction is given over an entire year rather than in a semesterized block…

For too many graduates, the American high school diploma signifies only a broken promise. While students and their parents may still believe that the diploma reflects adequate preparation for the intellectual demands of college or work, employers and postsecondary institutions know that it often serves as little more than a certificate of…

America needs more students trained in basic science and engineering than the educational system is now providing. Schools must raise their standards and demand more of their students and teachers. Suggestions for upgrading the high school curriculum and the teacher training curriculum are given. (IS)

A 1981 needs survey distributed to 587 superintendents (37.5 percent returned) of all small (1,000 students or less) K-12 Texas school districts shows lack of money to be the most critical need. A critical teacher shortage (especially in mathematics and science) and curriculum development and supervision are other important concerns. (LC)

A five-year longitudinal investigation was undertaken to identify factors influencing secondary school students in their choice of sixth-form courses and possible careers. The influence of intelligence, personality, aspirations, and family were studied. (Author/BW)

Provides lesson plans for grades 8-9 mathematics; 4-6 music; 4-6 reading/language arts; K and 3-4 science; and 6-8 social studies. Lists print and nonprint resources, and library media and subject area objectives; discusses instructional roles, activities, procedures, evaluation, and follow-up. Includes a pirate book plate and lists 26 real…

A culturally and economically diverse group of 361 urban seventh graders rated their perceptions for liking and difficulty of core academic subjects and their attributions for mathematics test performance. Results suggest that boys and girls are not significantly different in their perceptions and in their attributions for lack of success. (SLD)

This study examined black 4th and 8th graders' mathematics achievement and attitudes. The effects of gender, economic status, self-concept, and learning style were studied. Students were from economically-stressed families and possessed negative mathematics attitudes. Economic status predicted 4th graders' achievement. Learning style and gender…

Reviews the literature on second language medium of instruction and educational achievement in Kenya using classroom data from English, Kiswahili, and mother tongue mathematics lessons and from lessons where code switching occurred. Argues that regardless of the instructional medium, a transmissional model of teaching and learning predominates.…

Ninety-seven elementary general education teachers rated their responses to the test failures of hypothetical boys with and without learning disabilities. In most cases, greater reward, less punishment, less anger, more pity, and higher expectations of future failure followed the negative outcomes of the boys with learning disabilities compared to…

Examines both benefits and problems associated with collaborative projects, based on experiences of the University of Southern Indiana and 15 school corporations in the state to improve public school mathematics and science instruction. While the partnerships had many positive outcomes, the burden of preparing proposals and implementing projects…

Describes the design of the secondary school named in the title, including the educational context and design goals. In conjunction with the science faculty of Flinders University, the school will offer adult learning approaches and develop curriculum based on new sciences such as nano- technology. Describes the design innovations that incorporate…

Recommends two computer programs for elementary social studies use that help solve the problem of one-computer classrooms: Little Shoppers Kit, a store-in-the-classroom role play; and Choices, Choices, a two-part program concerning ethical questions relevant to students' experiences. Emphasizes cooperative learning, teacher as facilitator, and…

Presents four reading activities, including "The Winter Tradition Project" (B. E. Sargent); "Using Children's Choice Books to Enhance Math and Health Instruction" (E. C. Webre); "Science Learning Centers: Seatwork Alternatives" (P. Piech); and "Checkered Word Fun" (L. R. Gauthier). (MG)

Discussion of computer-assisted instruction and cognitive style focuses on a study of college students that investigated the relationship of student success in algebra and field independence-dependence. Topics discussed include the effectiveness of computers as instructional tools; treatments for experimental and control groups; courseware; and…