Notes that less than 1% of the new Prentice Hall American literature textbook, "The American Experience," is devoted to works by writers with Hispanic surnames. Offers two guidelines for the selection of literature outside the anthology: independent choice by students and teachers; and indigenous literature which arises from students'…

Professional debate over curriculum reform has shifted focus from content to procedural and organization issues. Government intervention to "teacher-proof" curriculum materials has further undercut teacher and curriculum workers' professionalism. Conflicts and compromise arising from social movements and pressures have shaped curriculum…

In the 16 college-level sexuality textbooks examined, photographs of Blacks have more impact than those of Whites, not only because of their rarity compared to the broad range of representations of Whites, but also because there is a problematic pattern to the kinds of images that appear. (IAH)

Surveys 12 recent textbooks from organizational and business communication perspectives to identify the link between what is taught in organizational communication classes and what is valued and effective in the workplace. (MM)

Glaring and basic textbook errors and misconceptions about photosynthesis are discussed. The Calvin Cycle, photosynthetic products, alternative cycles, and plants as producers are considered. Included are observations of both college and secondary textbooks. (CW)

This article suggests several lessons, exercises, and class projects that utilize the Iran-Contra affair as a theme. Designed to aid the development of abilities necessary for civic virtue, the activities focus on fact gathering, validating claims, reflecting on the source of opinions, and learning to ask questions. (IAH)

Examines whether content area textbook passages could be rewritten so that middle grade students' main idea comprehension ability was enhanced. Finds that after reading rewritten text versions, some students could compose significantly more passage main ideas, and all students could compose significantly more paragraph main ideas. (MM)

Examines 10 hardback college-level writing handbooks published in 1985 and 1986 by 9 major publishers. Finds that word processing has assumed a place in college writing but that authors and publishers have not found a substantial place for word processing in composition instruction. (RS)

Examines the impact of the new California History Social Science Framework on the development of new textbooks. Provides an outline of this K-12 framework and discusses the question of whether the program will falter if textbook development is not adequate. (KO)

Describes elements in the Philosophy for Children program that have relevance for aesthetic education. Outlines some of the main philosophical themes associated with aesthetic education. Discusses both materials and methods, paying particular attention to the text "Suki." Reviews ways in which the program holds students' attention and…

Presents a critical overview of several Greek textbooks and courses on the basis of 11 factors: textbook aims, methodological guidance, tape and book, language skills, relevant language, information about language, contextual information, language of negotiation, vocabulary layout, motivation, memory, and others. (CK)

Three home economics textbooks on human relations were analyzed in terms of intentions, photographs, language, and content about gender relations. In terms of five approaches (visual balance, neutral/inclusive language, gender balance in information, gender sensitivity, and critical thinking), many parts were inadequate and contributed to myths…

Content analysis of 12 Finnish and 18 American primers for grades 3 through 6 published primarily during the 1980s examined story type, plot setting, protagonist's characteristics, dramatic tasks, portrayals of family structure and parental responsibility, and extrafamilial peer and adult relationships. Results suggest that a nation's cultural…

Explains that analysis of leading ideas in 20th century engineering writing textbooks and other primary sources demonstrates that disciplinary discourse conventions develop from an intricate nexus of human motivations, beliefs, and social activity. Explores currents in American social and intellectual history that explain this complex view of…

Most basic German textbooks seem to be geared toward white males. This article examines three recently published textbooks in terms of the portrayal of females and people of color. Suggestions are offered for better representing the pluralistic U.S. society. (Author/LB)