Discusses how the use of organizing themes can help to convey to students a sense of internal continuity within the discipline of biology and at the same time emphasize to them that viewing the study of biology as merely applied chemistry and physics is inaccurate and overly simplistic. (ZWH)

Argues that English teachers must rediscover and subsequently utilize an interdisciplinary approach to reform the schools. Explores two implications for interdisciplinary study growing from a holistic, process-centered approach to English studies. Suggests that English should become the leader in an interdisciplinary future. (HB)

Briefly reviews the development of core curricula and interdisciplinary teaming in junior high/middle schools from the mid-1950s to the present. A recent study of 15,000 Maine eighth graders shows that schools using the middle-school, interdisciplinary approach outscored their junior high school peers enrolled in single-discipline subjects by 58…

Describes a high school art teacher's efforts to involve the school staff in cross-curricular instruction. After discussing how the teacher initiated the project, the article examines her research, and how she created and implemented a cross-curricular lesson plan. The appendix provides a sample lesson plan. (SM)

This article provides an overview of the University of Chicago (Illinois), discussing its educational philosophy, numerous Nobel Laureates, free-market economic theory, midwestern philosophy, support for interdisciplinary research, high quality faculty, renowned department of sociology, and current unprecedented hiring freeze. (DB)

Recent population migrations, disappearing domestic/foreign affairs boundaries, and massive economic, scientific, and technological changes are forcing the U.S. to redefine its isolationist position and adopt a more collaborative stance. To help children see through others' eyes, minds, and hearts, some general global education principles are…

A pilot program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City included creation of a part-time administrative position to enhance cooperative ventures between the university and the pharmaceutical industry through placement of clinical trials among academic units with interdisciplinary research programs in the health sciences. Sponsored funding levels…

Four elementary teachers describe how they support an interdisciplinary curriculum using integrated units. One builds tall towers of spaghetti. Another touches on all subjects using baseball card games. The third turns the playground into an archeological dig. The last sails the ocean along with the Pilgrims. (SM)

Although schools are trying to incorporate multiple cultures and diverse backgrounds, even multicultural education is failing to engage students. The biggest problem is not bilingual children but monocultural teachers. Euro-American culture differs from other world cultures by stressing extroversion, analytical thought, and discrete disciplines.…

A survey of current trends in teaching English to speakers of other languages identifies four themes involving: learner motivation and empowerment; an expanding international range of language policy issues; content-centered and task-based curricula and emphasis on peace and environmental education; and cooperative, learner-centered teaching. (42…

Describes how the geology department of Bucknell University integrated its Senior Program with Bucknell's writing program. The program stresses the importance of the following: (1) teaching appropriate writing skills and style; (2) providing clearly articulated writing assignments; (3) writing multiple drafts; (4) using the peer-review method; and…

Discusses a variety of writing assignments emphasizing critical-thinking skills for a geology curriculum. The assignments include question and answer assignments, reaction papers, short papers, and position papers. The authors contend that several short writing assignments are better than a single term paper because students improve their writing…

Provides an annotated bibliography of 10 ERIC documents and journal articles that focus on the interdisciplinary approach to elementary school social studies curriculum development and instruction. Specifically includes information on integrating language arts, art education, and global education in social studies. (CFR)

Recommends the use of song lyrics in secondary school U.S. history, government, and economics courses. Contends that using music meets the criterion of cultural literacy in the California History Social Science Framework. (CFR)

Presents a lesson in which history, science, and mathematics combine to contribute to an understanding of one of the five fundamental themes of geography: location. Discusses the maps and navigational equipment available at the time of Christopher Columbus. Describes timekeeping, recording speed, and determining latitude and longitude during a…