Writing groups, used in many English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) composition classrooms, pose problems for some students from collectivistic cultures such as Japan and China. Suggested reasons are the individual benefit goal, the need for feedback rather than group harmony, and strained group dynamics. (Contains 41 references.) (Author/LB)

Examined children's social status, friendship, and adjustment. Found that peer relationships contributed uniquely to children's socioemotional adjustment, academic performance, and self-concept. Peer status also affected adjustment, with peer rejection and neglect being significant negative predictors. Effects of friendship appeared positive, with…

Structural aspects of school-based peer networks of adolescents in grades 6 through 12 were mapped in 3 school systems in a major Midwestern city. The results indicated that female students were more connected to their peer network than were male students, and that peer networks became more exclusive with increasing grade. (MDM)

Task-related talk, reading comprehension, and metacognition of 219 third grade students were examined over a 4-week period in classrooms assigned to reward (encouragement through team recognition) or strategy (discussions directed toward task content) conditions. The role of task related talk and efficacy of focusing strategies are discussed. (SLD)

Interviews with 21 present and former female gang members illustrate the lives of Mexican American girls in the gang milieu of the San Fernando Valley (Los Angeles, California). Gang structure, activities, and reasons for joining are discussed, along with the gang as a source of support. (SLD)

A group of 91 fifth and sixth graders kept diaries of liked and disliked peer behaviors and important peer activities for a week. Another group of 81 fifth and sixth graders rated the importance and prevalence of each activity and indicated most liked and disliked positive and negative behaviors. Three main functions were evident. (RH)

Positive Peer Groups (PPG) is a leadership training program that helps alienated and disengaged students bond to school via participation in school-oriented service activities stressing work, discipline, and responsibility. Students form affiliations with peers involved in the same efforts. Results in Ohio schools are encouraging. (MLH)

Studied 8- and 11-year-olds as evaluators of peer group entry and limited resources. Found older children evaluated peers more positively than did younger for limited resources conflicts. Found all children evaluated the focal peer's intentions during group entry more negatively than intentions during limited resources and evaluated peer responses…

Examined antecedents and moderators of antisocial behavior among children interviewed annually through high school and in early adulthood. Analyses identified four configurations differing in early school dropout and criminal arrests. School extracurricular activity participation related to reduced rates of early dropout and criminal arrest among…

Describes the activities and benefits of Positive Peer Groups (PPG), a Cleveland-based diocese program involving 40 schools. Designed for students with behavioral or academic problems, it focuses on school service projects that teach students to develop and implement valuable social skills. Describes the positive social and academic effects PPG…

Descibes a study of students residing in community college dormitories. Results showed that residence hall staff are perceived to be higher contributors to the academic climate than residential peers. Suggestions are made for how community colleges can reexamine the educational potential of residence halls. (Contains 15 references.) (KC)

Reviews the literature on young children's peer social development. Addresses implications of social learning theory and empirical research. Discusses recurring themes, including child/peer versus child/adult interactions, incorporation of toys and games, influence of mothers, and gender peer preferences. Considers areas lacking empirical support…

Describes the author's experience of teaching three composition courses--Women Essayists, Language Awareness, and Advanced Argumentation. Explains how she turned much of the teaching over to the students and how most everyone benefited from it. (TB)

Critically examines three propositions of Harris' group socialization theory (1995, 1998) related to parents' long-term effects on children's psychological characteristics, peer groups' influences, and the nature of dyadic relationships. Maintains that available evidence is more consistent with a model of multiple socialization agents. Proposes a…

Educational technology is not about spread sheeting, word processing, or slick, "PowerPointless" student performances. Professional development should focus on curriculum-based teaching and learning strategies that enhance daily practice. Like gardening, fertilizer is needed via informal support systems, study groups, mentors, help…