Evaluates an elementary textbook (Journeys in Science, volume 3) on thermodynamics. Points out some inadequate expressions and explains the reasons. (YP)

Examines context and contextualized language practice exercises in college-level French language textbooks, focusing on their effectiveness in communicative classrooms. Current examples of these exercises do not adequately address the need for more realism, since many take too much time, confuse drill and communication, and encourage inappropriate…

The grade placement of topics in addition and subtraction was compared across the five countries through analysis of textbooks. "Remarkable" uniformity in grade placement was noted for Japan, China, the Soviet Union, and Taiwan, but the United States differed substantially. (MNS)

In "Textbook Publishers and Academics" and "Some Observations on Sociology", Sheryl Fullerton and Franklin C. Graham discuss the history of sociology textbooks; the viewpoints of professors and publishers; and the goals of textbook publication. States that with changes in the sociology curriculum, textbook change will follow. (GEA)

Argues that much of the monetary theory in economics textbooks has not changed in accordance with the facts of monetary history. Contends that by neglecting institutional changes in the monetary system in the 50 years since the publication of Keynes' General Theory, many textbooks are now in danger of seriously misleading their readers. (GEA)

Examines 25 contemporary public speaking textbooks to determine how the subject of communication apprehension (CA) is addressed. Finds that textbooks present accurate information about CA; however, much of the material presented in the texts is dated, and frequently derived from nonacademic sources. (MS)

Discusses issues related to short-run marginal cost and long-run marginal cost in economic theory. Asserts that few economics textbooks deal with important aspects of this concept. Includes four figures illustrating the approach suggested by the authors. (CFR)

Asserts that international trade, as compared with international finance or even international economics, is primarily an applied microeconomics field. Discusses decomposition analysis in relation to international trade and tariffs. Reports on an evaluation of the treatment of this topic in eight college-level economics textbooks. (CFR)

Focuses on an understanding of the term, "cultural awareness," and suggests the issue is clouded since the word "culture" lends itself to variable interpretation. In addition, the description of what is actually included under cultural awareness has undergone considerable changes as it appears in the different sequential…

To make text attractive to readers, writers may add supporting information. In texts of the characteristic topic type, this information may include narrative accounts, questions to the reader, and the use of examples. The use of narrative accounts and examples may confuse the reader. Awareness of topic type may help overcome some of these…

Content analysis of 7 mathematics textbook series, grades 1-8, found that textbooks published after 1989 (when NCTM Standards were published) showed shifts of emphasis among content areas; changes in amount of content development, drill, word problems, and problem solving; and increased use of estimation and calculators. (13 references) (MKR)

Maintains traditional interpretation of the Reconstruction Era tends toward intellectual incoherence instead of probing the historical forces at work. Reviews seven college textbook treatments of the Reconstruction Era and finds three adhering to the traditional approach while four project strong thematic schemes. (CFR)

Explores the extent to which presentations about multiplication and division involving decimals within three series of mathematics textbooks for grades three through eight help students to counter common learner misconceptions about multiplication and division. Results indicate that theory on conceptual change with its concomitant research have…

Explores the history of social studies instruction. Reports findings of an analysis of 1,217 lessons contained in 5 social studies textbooks. Concludes that geography, history, and anthropology receive the greatest coverage in the books, whereas sociology and political science are stressed least. Identifies differences among the five books.…

The readability, interest level, and content of 18 current college textbooks on mainstreaming were assessed. Results revealed that readability and interest level were comparable among the texts. More variation was found in the contents of the texts. A table lists 16 topics and the degree to which each is covered in the textbooks. (DB)