In the process of fitting a quantitative synthesis model, the assumption of homogeneous effect size variation is assessed via omnibus test statistics. Graphical representations of data on techniques for teaching composition skills are used to help determine the extent to which sample estimates deviate from modeled population estimates. (TJH)

Emphasizes classroom study of poetic patterns and images to enable students to see how poems work without overwhelming them with terminology. (MS)

Suggests that through the shared experience of producing a story, students can understand plot on a deeper level and remember it more vividly than simply having it explained to them. (MS)

Investigates the effect of the environment on kindergarten children's development of the seven functions of writing (as described by M. A. K. Halliday). Concludes that children in an environment that emphasizes the functions of writing gain better knowledge of writing functions than do children whose environment lacks such emphasis. (ARH)

Summarizes workshop organization and activities at the 1987 Governor's Academy for Teachers of Writing, a two-week workshop and writing laboratory for teachers in Tennessee. (MM)

Argues that technical writing teachers must understand desktop publishing. Discusses the strengths that technical writing teachers bring to desktop publishing, and the impact desktop publishing will have on technical writing courses and programs. (ARH)

Argues that it is time to return figurative language to the classroom. Claims teachers should teach writers more figures, regardless of the approach to composition instruction. (MS)

Describes a synonym exercise--composing an essay without using the verbs "be,""have,""go," or "get"--which increases students' awareness of at least six different language features. (MM)

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…

Examines the advantages of using desktop publishing in advanced writing classes. Explains how desktop publishing can spur creativity, call attention to the interaction between words and pictures, encourage the social dimensions of computing and composing, and provide students with practical skills. (MM)

Presents a step-by-step outline of the "Old Choo-Choo System of Magazine Writing"--a model for teaching feature article writing. Notes that this visual example helps students focus their feature writing. (MM)

Raises questions about the extent to which the classical treatment of arrangement is still appropriated by the modern composition teacher, and the ways in which this concept is tied to notions of coherence. Discusses implications for modern composition theory and practice. (MS)

Suggests that audience analysis, contextual and conventional "register," and the interplay between audience and convention are all tools needed to teach students how to write effectively and appropriately. Draws attention to the many features and types of conventional registers and underscores their relationship to audience…

Describes how studying under Ken Macrorie led one high school English teacher to use freewriting as a prewriting activity in her classroom. (ARH)

Describes rewriting examples of good writing into "ordinary" writing, to identify what elements of style made the original version so effective. (HTH)