In schools, a lesson functions as an individual building block to support the learning of new material. Experts have identified key elements in an effective lesson, and education leaders--including school based administrators, instructional coaches, department and grade-level chairs--usually look for these elements when reviewing lesson plans and…

The founders of the family academy developed a powerful curriculum for struggling readers. The element of the powerful program that was born from research, from experience and from staying carefully attuned to young children is presented.

Installation and operation of the cluster approach in career education at the junior high school level provide an opportunity for these students to have a curriculum which is meaningful, realistic, and viable. (Author)

In a data-driven school culture, there is an institutionalized willingness to use numbers systematically to reveal important patterns and answer focused questions about policy, methods, and outcomes. A central data team relies on input from teachers, ultimately responsible for student success. Massachusetts applications and examples are described.…

The battle for communication skills has already been won; the task ahead is to get teachers in the trenches to teach them, either in separate units or in their subject areas. Nine references are listed, and a list of resources for implementing instruction in speaking and listening is provided. (Author/DCS)

At a private high school in Providence, Rhode Island, students benefit from Big Brother and Sister programs, peer mediation, and lessons in emotional intelligence across the curriculum. These activities are part of a comprehensive social and emotional education program called "Success for Life." For nearly 20 years, seniors have been…

The Bicentennial celebration can help us to reevaluate our responses to cultural diversity and to build on these valuable strengths for a more equitable future. (MM)

During the next decade schools will shift to a new model of instruction that combines teachers and machines. Described are the probable characteristics of the model, the coming changes in curriculum content and design, and the stages of evolution to the new model. (MLF)

Blaming unsatisfactory student achievement on the middle school concept is a case of mistaken identity. Too many middle schools have failed to fully implement the middle school concept. Based on statements from the Carnegie Council and the National Middle School Association, the middle school concept calls for improved academic achievement for all…