Describes an individually-prescribed instructional reading program (for grades one through fourteen) that retains the advantages of peer interaction and increases, rather than decreases, teacher-pupil interaction in a cost-effective framework. (JM)

This paper describes a method of organizing a mathematics department to provide students with a flexible individualized program consisting of core courses and modular electives. The adaptability of the program to both open and traditional schools is discussed, as is evaluation of the program. (SD)

Described is a model for developing and implementing criterion-referenced instructional units. Advice concerning the development of units and tests as well as classroom organization and management are provided. (SD)

Over 750,000 U.S. school-age children are homeless. Schools can eliminate attendance and environmental barriers sabotaging these children's education by becoming communities of learning that provide specialized education for children, contextualized education for parents, and linkages to needed services. The Bronx's Brownstone School, Chicago's…

Studied how Montessori teachers accommodate young children's special needs. Phase one involved interviews and observations of several teachers, and phase two involved an extensive survey of teachers. Found that teachers' perceptions of support and collaboration, use of strategies to nurture independence, and the impact of children with challenging…

Howard Gardner's research explores why some students achieve (test) well, while others struggle. Gardner's ideal school features master teachers and an assessment specialist to provide regular, updated intelligence evaluations of each student's strengths, weaknesses, and inclinations. Curricula would use fresh approaches borrowed from museums and…

Describes techniques for providing individualized library instruction for international students as exemplified by the program at Western Carolina University (North Carolina). Discusses four steps: identifying new students; meeting them and giving written invitations for instruction; interviewing; and giving library tours and instruction tailored…

Michigan allows four different entities to authorize charter schools: state public universities, community colleges, intermediate school districts, and local school districts. To ensure establishment of high-quality standards, Central Michigan University developed a rigorous two-phase chartering process. Charters avoid "best" approaches…

Suggestions for teaching students who are both gifted and learning disabled stresses providing them with compacting and differentiation in the areas of their strengths and direct instruction of learning strategies in their areas of weakness. The article also warns that the child's giftedness may go unnoticed and unaccommodated in favor of…

Considers the effects of those who wanted to minimize classroom teaching in elementary schools, infant schools and infant departments. Explores the ideas of Maria Montessori, the debate between whole-class methods and individualized instruction, grouping students by ability, and the notion of individualism. (CMK)

Describes the experience of two Montessori teachers working together to develop a Montessori charter school in Florida serving children from preschool through sixth grade. Focuses on the proposal submission, the importance of key state level supporters, documentation of their preparation, and proof of the financial ability to start the school.…

The article presents an approach to curriculum modification based on analysis of both the needs of the individual special needs learner and the structure of the curriculum. Using the effective teaching literature as a model, the article considers curriculum scope and sequence, organization, presentation, guided practice, independent practice, and…

Provided are 20 ideas for learning activities in mathematics suitable for individual independent use by gifted elementary and middle school students. Typical ideas include making models of various triangles, scale drawings, exploring prime numbers, and drawing graphs. (DB)

The president of Frontier College (Canada) uses examples from the program to elaborate the central philosophy of student-centered, individualized learning. Basic points are that labels often prevent marginalized people from making contributions and that literacy should be a tool for empowerment and inclusion in the community. (SK)

Describes integrated teaching systems (ITS), formerly called integrated learning systems, and discusses guidelines to be considered when purchasing an ITS. Topics discussed include instructional theories, appropriate grade levels and curriculum areas, management and reporting systems, and cost considerations. A list of vendors offering ITS and…