How do you create an innovative and equitable classroom experience that prepares elementary students for jobs that don't yet exist while placing a critical focus on mathematics and science content and practice standards-all while meeting the demands of high-stakes testing? The answer to this question is Step into STEAM, by Sarah Bush and Kristin…

This evidence-based practice overview on Structured Play Groups (SPG) includes the following components: (1) Overview: A quick summary of salient features of the practice, including what it is, who it can be used with, what skills it has been used with, and settings for instruction; (2) Evidence-base: The "SPG Evidence-base" details the…

Language teacher education is widely identified as one of the most important areas that needs addressing in order to improve early language instruction, yet research into teacher education for early language teachers remains relatively sparse. This volume responds to this gap by compiling studies with diverse methodological tenets from a wide…

This evidence-based practice overview on Parent Implemented Intervention (PII) includes the following components: (1) Overview: A quick summary of salient features of the practice, including what it is, who it can be used with, what skills it has been used with, and settings for instruction; (2) Evidence-base: The "PII Evidence-base"…

As pre-service instructors, we turned to longitudinal study of our graduates as a primary means of finding out how our courses could better prepare student teachers for the challenging early years of teaching. In addition, we used other self-study methods, notably regular feedback from student teachers during the program. The study of 22 graduates…

Elementary special education teachers can enhance the transition of handicapped students into mainstreamed classes by careful planning and preparation of the regular class teachers, nonhandicapped students themselves. Followup communication with the regular class teacher must be maintained. (CL)

The article reviews definitions of giftedness and gifted readers and reviews research on reading for the gifted. Also discussed are strategies and innovative practices that are effective with gifted readers, including interest assessment, learning styles evaluation, curriculum compacting, and the three types of enrichment in the Enrichment Triad…

Describes how the Diocese of Dallas overcame the logistical problems serving as obstacles to the widespread use of the Catholic Television Network in instruction at St. Pius X Elementary School. Looks at equipment needs, fund raising, staff development, technical considerations, and benefits. (DMM)

Two articles address issues in the development of French and Spanish language programs in elementary schools: instructional materials and time and money factors. The information presented is drawn from experience in developing the Radford, Virginia FLES (Foreign Language in the Elementary School) program. The first article describes some aspects…

Using information from seven model programs that provide foreign language instruction to elementary and middle school students, this publication addresses common questions from administrators, educators, and parents who are considering establishing early foreign language programs in their communities. Questions examine the following issues:…

This article describes the origins of and the planning involved in a successful school-based staff development program called "Teacher Sharing." The program is simple, informal, and based entirely on teacher input. (IAH)

This article presents practical information to help teachers become an effective force for drug education in their schools. A profile of a second grade teacher is included. She created a program that combines parent involvement and building student self-esteem in an effort to prepare children to refuse drugs in later years. (IAH)

This article describes how a group of elementary teachers set out to master their instructional software to turn the collection into an effective aid for enabling the success of students with and without disabilities. It discusses planning for systematic intervention and positive outcomes through the use of computer programs. (Contains…

A compendium of practical information about Australia's Writers/Illustrators in Schools programs, this booklet, compiled in consultation with authors, illustrators, and organizers, strives to smooth the way for both visitors and schools in the challenge of helping children to enjoy books and writing. Pertinent quotes from authors and artists who…

Suggests how to develop a successful elementary school waste reduction program. Discusses motivation for waste reduction activities, tools for ongoing education and motivation, and program benefits. Vignette provides an activity on planning a waste-free lunch. (MCO)