Proposes modifying standard readability formulas, such as the Fry and Flesch, by determining which words in a given passage would be taught as vocabulary words. These words are given the value of one syllable. In examples using this method, the readability is reduced from eighth to fourth grade. (KC)

This look at old mathematics textbooks is designed to provide interesting insights into earlier historical periods as well as a different, sometimes amusing, perspective on current practices. (MK)

Reports on an examination of intermediate level basal readers in eight series, concluding that they reflect reasonably well the interests of intermediate children. (DD)

A humorous account of errors in existing basal readers and workbooks. (DD)

Textbook makers, buyers, and users are all suffering from censorship by vocal minorities. (DD)

Expresses concern about the scientific accuracy of 2 series of books intended for years 7-8 working toward Key Stage 3. Discusses three examples that relate to the liquid state, solutions, and genes and chromosomes. Includes the criteria upon which the appraisal is based. (Author/JRH)

Critiques major topics or themes in school-leadership texts, such as problem-solving techniques; suggests alternative topics or themes for school administrators, such as ideas-based leadership. Draws implications for writers on school leadership. (Contains 59 references.) (PKP)

This study examined 2,570 Chinese characters taught in Chinese elementary schools. Findings indicated that visual complexity, phonetic regularity, and semantic transparency of characters increased from early to later grades. Characters introduced in first/second grade contained fewer strokes but were less likely to be regular or transparent than…

German textbooks have grown too large and too diverse in emphasis, inhibiting the promotion and maintenance of German beyond the first college semester of language study and destroying author and publisher initiative to produce books for any level higher than the elementary level. (Author/CB)

Asserts that passive constructions are not the mark of flawed writing as many textbooks claim them to be but are instead frequent and effective stylistic variants. (RAE)

Demonstrates misconceptions of the meaning of temperature based on classical kinetic energy. Discusses some misconceptions about negative temperatures and the effect of compression. (YP)

Gives an historical overview of Rogerian motivational constructs of actualization and self actualization. Reports the results of a survey of introductory textbooks relative to their treatment of Rogers' thinking. Suggests that individuals who wish to create a Rogerian presentation should incorporate the congruence/incongruence concept. (KO)

A quantitative and qualitative analyses of prescribed standard eight biology textbooks are discussed in relation to the teaching of ecology. Identifies problems related to relying on prescribed texts for instruction and considers some of the facets that need to be addressed in the compilation of texts. (LZ/Author)

Finds that high school physical science students prefer textbooks with expository text that not only gives a correct concept but refutes common incorrect ideas. Finds that writing a comprehensible text is more difficult than the researchers had imagined. (SR)

Examines the unpopularity of social studies among students. Suggests that the source of the problem may be found in textbooks. Discusses textbooks written by Samuel Griswold Goodrich, a.k.a. "Peter Parley," a nineteenth-century U.S. social studies textbook writer. Underscores his belief in using literature to connect social studies to…