Urges the use of claims-based analysis in editorial writing instruction. Explains the use of five hierarchical claim types (factual, definitional, causal, value, and policy) to teach students to analyze and formulate arguments, thus teaching editorial writing by focusing more on the process than on the product. (SR)

According to a recent Washington State survey, middle school educators need more than general training in teaching and administration to meet young adolescent students' needs. Respondents desired more knowledge about young adolescents' emotional, social, and intellectual development, and appropriate teaching and discipline techniques. Includes…

Eight behavior disordered students (ages 7-11) in a self-contained class were given two units of instruction in science concepts in a crossover design, with each student receiving both mnemonic and traditional instruction. Student learning was significantly improved under mnemonic instruction, and high levels of concept retention were…

Describes the components of a program designed to strengthen ethical behavior relative to corporate policy. The topics covered include the identification of ethical standards and the skills related to those standards, the use of job aids, performance testing using case studies to simulate the application environment, and trainer tools. (CLB)

Advocates teaching remedial reading in the context of the liberal arts. Identifies problems with developmental reading texts. Recommends the use of remedial reading materials that address socially and culturally significant topics appropriate for college-level study. Offers a sample lesson sequence illustrating the simultaneous acquisition of…

Described are activities using jar lids for sorting, classifying, and graphing; ordering; and measuring circumference and diameter. (MNS)

An instrumental technique is presented to help students create a symbolic representation that may aid the process of choosing an appropriate operation to solve a problem. Current research and practice are discussed; then the part-part-whole model is presented. (MNS)

Presents the results of a 1985 statewide assessment of the status of environmental science in Texas school districts. Characterized results in terms of grade level, course, teaching materials, techniques, curriculum emphases, implementation difficulties and needed assistance. Discusses implications for inservice programs, teaching practices, and…

Difficulties experienced by algebra students are listed, with comments on what can be done and some implications for teaching. (MNS)

Topics from graph theory are introduced at an informal level and thereby made accessible to the majority of secondary school students. Three worksheets are included. (MNS)

Outlines the functions of museums and explains how these functions can relate to teaching history. Points out the value in taking students to museums, noting that visits may be enhanced through teacher pre-planning. Gives advice on how to counsel students who wish to pursue careers in historical agencies and museums. (GEA)

Suggestions for enhancing use of evaluation studies (i.e., state-level mental health programs) are presented. Steps for maximizing evaluation utilization include marketing, planning, and conducting the evaluation; developing/focusing policy questions; translating findings; and making people pay attention to the results. These are processes for…

The history of evaluation utilization in policy making and political features of program evaluation are discussed. A five-part continuum describes the evaluation process. Evaluation practice modifications contribute to real growth in evaluation use in congressional policy making as evaluation research improves the quality of information available…

Contingent valuation (CV) is used to obtain more complete estimates of the economic value of benefits of preschool education for handicapped children. A general approach for use of CV in cost-benefit analysis of educational programs and use of the CV interview with 80 parents of handicapped preschoolers are described. (SLD)

A typology of educational monitoring systems is developed, emphasizing its usefulness for educational policymakers. Compliance monitoring, diagnostic monitoring, and performance monitoring are three major types, which are illustrated via case studies in New Jersey, Minnesota, and California, respectively. (SLD)