This paper examines whole language and mathematical concepts implemented to incorporate reading, writing and oral-language concepts into mathematical lessons in early childhood education. After discussing the theoretical background and anecdotal observations of the use of whole language to improve math skills, the paper describes a mini study in…

With the introduction of the "whole language" approach to literacy and an emphasis on "across the curriculum" learning, the effective instruction of writing has taken on an added importance during the past two decades in California. Recent public demands for a "back to basics" school curriculum where the mastering of…

This curriculum unit is designed to give primary school students foreign language experiences and also to support the cultural literacy strand of the California State History-Social Science Framework. The unit is part of an elementary literature series which utilizes quality primary source literature from various world regions and countries and…

Relationships between teachers' theoretical orientations toward reading, classroom process, and task assignment and student outcomes for students who had scored above or below the population median on a standardized test of early reading ability were studied for 11 kindergarten teachers and 132 students. Differences for whole-language and phonics…

Describes one teacher's change process as she moved from a formal list of spelling words to a more individualized program, focusing on high-frequency words, student ownership, and sound/spelling principles. Offers descriptions of her spelling program as well as seven selected journals entries to show what her spelling program looks like during a…

Describes a unique language learning activity using the whole language approach in a tertiary level lower advanced reading and speaking course. Following a semester long theme on crime and punishment, students were introduced to an authentic, idiomatic text dealing with a famous murder case in U.S. history. (Author/VWL)

Describes four models: The Authoring Cycle, a whole language approach that reflects the inquiry process; I-Search, an approach to research that uses the power of student interests; Cultural Celebration, using local heritage topics; and Science Lab Report, for the composition of a lab report. (LRW)

Compares whole language and process-oriented science and discusses the similarities between them. (KHR)

Interviews Marilyn Jager Adams about her book "Beginning to Read: Thinking and Learning about Print." Discusses the critical issues of phonics versus whole language and what she hopes teachers will gain from the book. (MG)

Discusses the "Biographic Literacy Profiles Project," a seminar for teachers and administrators which focused on developing an alternative to current assessment methods in elementary language arts. Shows how the process of changing assessment patterns can reflect the same integrative, holistic goals that teachers have for working with…

If whole language classes are to be student-centered and teacher responsive, teachers must relinquish several commonly held assumptions regarding student performance levels and abilities, testing practices, lesson planning, and classroom control. In the process, they will gain the freedom to achieve their own potential and enhance their students'…

Looks closely at 19 myths about whole language teaching, learning, and assessment. Presents the myths not to criticize teachers but to help all teachers examine their pedagogical assumptions and to learn from the contradictions found. (MG)

Describes a collaborative professional development project designed to bring whole language knowledge to more classroom teachers. Discusses one staff developer's work with a second grade teacher. Argues that staff developers must (1) know and respect teachers; (2) provide ongoing support; and (3) link theory and practice. Concludes that staff…

Uses the philosophy of Taoism as a metaphor in describing the whole language approach to language arts instruction. The discussion covers the key principles that inform the whole language approach, the resulting holistic nature of language programs, and the role of the teacher in this approach. (16 references) (CLB)

Discusses the use of keyboarding skills in elementary classrooms and stresses the importance of establishing writing environments that help children to understand writing as communication. (MG)