Points out that children's growth in response to literature is not assessed by existing standardized tests or by progress from one textbook to another. Suggests guidelines for teacher observation of children's responses and provides a checklist for assessing oral and written reactions. (FL)

Points out that sound assessment programs should (1) be a part of instruction, (2) use varied methods and instruments, (3) focus on a broad range of skills and knowledge, (4) occur continuously, (5) occur in a variety of contexts, and (6) be appropriate for age and level of development. Offers examples of practices based on these points. (FL)

Reviews research findings on transfer of learning and indicates that current research (especially metacognition) holds considerable promise for a more complete understanding of the mechanisms of transfer. (NKA)

Notes that marking student papers is a rhetorical act requiring audience awareness. Describes how thinking of paper-marking as a conversation can make the task both more enjoyable and more effective. (HTH)

Focuses on the value of informational books while presenting a module for teaching about children's literature. Includes a list of journal articles about using children's literature, as well as a list of informational children's books from the following genres: wordless picture books, picture books, biographies, fine arts, science, and social…

The Logo computer program is well-suited to gifted students' learning style characteristics (independence, fluency, persistence); learning style preferences (learning alone, use of tactile and kinesthetic senses, and sound in the learning environment); and teaching method preferences (independent projects, discussion, flexibility, and traditional…

A case study of a dyslexic elementary student revealed that anxiety about reading difficulties complicated instruction and impeded progress. A supportive classroom environment (which did not request oral right reading), choral repeated reading, a video oral reading production, and a desensitization/visualization exercise reduced the child's…

Suggestions presented for special education teachers evaluating or preparing mildly or moderately disabled students for integration into mainstreamed classes include: training students to understand the difference between the resource and mainstreamed classes (directions, group activities); meeting with the regular classroom teacher; and teaching…

The mechanisms, objectives, and uses of performance assessment in public service occupations in the United Kingdom and other countries are examined and their implications for use in higher education are discussed. It is suggested that politically, the relationship of professional providers and consumers will increase in significance. (MSE)

This article describes a national survey of members of the National Association of School Psychologists (N=115) which was conducted to assess the current family assessment and intervention practices of school psychology practitioners. Results indicated that perceived competence and level of family training are increasing among school…

Describes an assignment that urges expository writers to pursue their own interests and create a fully developed prose project that they will be eager to share. (HTH)

Surveys the composition scene both as a teacher and journal editor, finding positive improvements such as (l) enhanced professionalism of young composition teachers, (2) growth of graduate programs, and (3) improved course content and methods. Notes, however, that in spite of these improvements each teacher still needs to periodically assess the…

A review of the literature concerning second language program evaluation looks at definitions of program evaluation, approaches taken to it, and the purposes that evaluation has fulfilled. Use of program evaluation to educate those working in or with second-language programs is recommended. (MSE)

Reviews literature regarding American Indian/Alaskan Native learning styles and related teaching styles, focusing on the recent theory that culture plays an important part in determining the students' learning styles, which may not be congruent with the school learning style. (Author/CB)

In science education and in clinical education, there now exists strong evidence of an imbalance between the theoretical and the practical. Schools and teaching hospitals must emphasize scholarship in their programs, and the educational value of the inpatient units of teaching hospitals must be studied. (MLW)