Commenting on Boskin's article "Observations on the Use of Textbooks in the Teaching of Principles of Economics," Case discusses the debate surrounding the sequence of principles courses and the content deemed necessary for corresponding textbooks. Case agrees with Boskin that key concepts should have more emphasis and concludes that…

Responding to "Observations on the Use of Textbooks in the Teaching of Principles of Economics," Dolan agrees with Boskin's appraisal of textbooks. Explains why texts share common faults and proposes possible means of alleviating them. Examines five constraints on textbook writers, stating that by changing them, authors can change their…

Discusses the problems presented by current principles of economics textbooks, proposing two theses: that the market for principles textbooks is one of monopolistic competition, and that it reflects certain market failures. Examines changes that are needed so that textbooks will reflect more adequately important changes in the economy and economic…

Evaluates four textbooks recommended by junior high and high school teachers for teaching writing and literature: "Enjoying Literature" (published by Macmillan, 1985); "Exposition: Critical Writing and Thinking" (Robert J. Gula); "Situational Writing" (Gene Krupa); and "Double Exposure: Composing through Writing…

Reviews literature, published between 1930 and 1985, concerning the general content of social studies textbooks for grades 1-4. Notes that scholars, legislators, publishers, and authors have tended to criticize different aspects of these textbooks but that surprisingly few reviewers have criticized their trivial content. (GEA)

Contends that if textbooks are to be improved it is essential that teachers, administrators, and textbook selectors become more demanding and discriminating consumers. Examines various textbook components that need improvement such as: (1) photographs; (2) basic skills exercises; (3) worksheets; and (4) content. (BSR)

Explores a definition of religious literacy; examines the role of religion in U.S. history; and reviews the side effect of neglecting religious history. Examines approaches that integrate religious events and ideas into the existing curriculum. Lists primary source documents. (DH)

Two views of the appropriate subject matter for elementary school physical education are discussed. One involves physical activities such as sports skills and games, and the other looks at human movement such as space and relationships. Textbook authors from 1917 through 1987 are classified according to their perspective. (MT)

Engages in a side-by-side comparison of the bestsellers among introductory public relations texts. Considers content, organizational method, use of supplementary materials, and authors' philosophy of public relations. Notes that the expanding choice of readings in the field mirrors the increasing interest in the study of public relations. (JD)

Shows how teachers can demonstrate the importance of accurate historical accounts by "falsifying" the history contained in their textbooks. Recommends that the teacher enter the classroom with false "corrections" sent by the textbook author. Concludes by describing activities designed to help students examine and refute the false account. (JDH)

The effects of text structure were studied using two kinds of reading materials: a standard text with headings and illustrations, as well as a nonstructured manuscript. The manuscript readers scored higher on delayed tests, generated more relevant ideas, and wrote better essays both immediately and after a delay. (Author/GDC)

A content analysis of topics relating to sex education as dealt with in five different postsecondary biology textbooks by different educational boards is made on a comparative basis. One finding is that the texts focus on facts rather than on social implications or utility. (Author/JN)

Discusses the history and evolution of censorship and how different publishers have censored textbooks and literature anthologies in order not to appease certain groups. (SRT)

Surveys eleven currently available undergraduate textbooks on industrial organization. Concludes that some texts have an economics emphasis and others a policy emphasis. Rates the content of each text according to established criteria. (JDH)

Basal reading, science, and social studies textbooks for elementary school students are too often stilted, boring, inaccurate, and/or confusing. If the children are to enjoy learning, textbook content and quality must be improved. (GC)