Two experiments investigate how attributes of peer models influenced achievement behaviors among children who had experienced difficulties learning mathematical skills in school. Children in the single-coping-model, multiple-coping-model, and multiple-mastery-model conditions demonstrated higher self-efficacy, skill, and training performance,…

Recent experiences teaching in inner city schools indicate they are structured in ways that increase failure probability. Absences, some related to students' poverty, and some administrative policies greatly reduce actual class time. Repeated classroom interruptions decrease instructional effectiveness. Inflexible instructional policies and…

Preschool intervention may be effective for economically disadvantaged children but not for middle-class children. Yet many preschool children need universally available day care. The best way to provide this would be to work with the schools. The author promotes the return to concept of the community school as a local center for all social…

Presents two basic parallel block elementary school schedules (schedules in which a block of time is scheduled for essential and/or desired small skill groups parallel to large instructional activities). Contends that parallel block scheduling in elementary schools can lead to improved instructional programs for low achievers. (GC)

Compared two methods of parent counseling in enhancing the self-esteem and academic achievement of 33 low-achieving rural elementary school students. Results indicated both the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting and the Self-Esteem Method improved academic achievement, but the SEM resulted in more significant gains in self-esteem. (JAC)

A study of Norwegian elementary school children found that in fourth to eighth graders, low academic achievement was associated with low self esteem and strong perceived parental pressure for boys, but not for girls. In eighth graders, low achievement was associated with low perceived value of school for girls only. (GC)

This report presents the preliminary development and field-testing of an observational system designed specifically to describe teacher-student dyadic interaction in second language instructional settings. (Author)

A case is made for having two teachers work with each basic or remedial science or mathematics class; administrative arrangements are discussed. (DT)

Fourteen schools in Oregon have completed their three-year implementation plans as a part of Oregon's Round 2 funding cycle. Seven schools are currently in Round 3 and eight schools are currently in Round 4. Oregon SEA staff worked closely with these schools as they evaluated progress made during their implementation. This report includes an…

This book brings together research and professional knowledge to enhance the teaching of lower attaining students in secondary mathematics. Attainment in mathematics is an important social issue, since underachievement can make a difference to future life choices, particularly amongst certain groups of students. This book shows how well-meant…

Two-year longitudinal case studies of 16 Sydney children extended a study of 103 first graders' use of structure across a range of mathematical tasks. We describe how individual's representations change through five stages of structural development. Children at the pre-structural stage showed inconsistent development presenting disorganised…

We describe a large-scale urban school initiative aimed at teachers' professional development with the goal of increasing teachers' mathematics content knowledge and helping them improve their practice. Believing that the formation of professional communities of teachers is crucial in supporting teachers trying to implement changes in their…

The purpose of this report is to document the pilot test of the Instruction and Learning Appraisal (ILA) and describe the quality of the ILA process. The ILA process was developed by Edvantia staff who serve as technical assistance providers to schools and districts in the region. Low-performing schools and districts (i.e., those that fail to…

This paper reports on a study of three states (Maryland, Massachusetts, and Texas) that investigated their policies and practices imvolving standards, assessment, accountability, teaching quality, and public engagement. It focuses on common conditions contributing to success in raising achievement (consistency, consensus, and comprehensiveness);…

A research project undertaken in York, Ontario, Canada aimed to raise literacy standards in the primary division and to ensure that all children in Grade 1 read to the Grade 1 standard (as determined by Reading Recovery levels, the school board, and the Ontario Ministry of Education). Focus was placed on acquiring high quality leveled literature…