In this paper, we describe an exercise that challenges hetero-normative and sexist notions of sexuality, allowing students to envision alternative models. Research shows how active learning eases student anxiety over challenging or threatening material. After reading Jessica Fields' "Risky Lessons" and Waskul, Vannini, and Weisen's…

This paper suggests some of the more important implications of classroom oral history projects based on the example of Foxfire. (Author)

Pictorial flashcards, particularly with effective use of color and humor, are recommended for effective secondary school Spanish classrooms. Student participation in flashcard creation, thematic cards as teaching tools, and class activities are described. (LB)

This article deals with the basic techniques of teaching entire classes to cooperatively develop simulation games. The first section presents a model which serves as a nucleus for developing the instructional strategies in the second section. (Author/KM)

This book provides easy-to-follow procedures for producing a play in an elementary school classroom. The book discusses choosing a play, casting, coaching, costumes, sets, and props. The process described in the book begins with simple creative dramatics that can be done easily in class, and then moves on to small group activities that continue to…

Student-generated materials are a means by which students may be brought into the role of active participant in their own second language learning processes. To create their own materials, students can engage in the following types of activities: (1) performance, or those in which the student prepares and delivers a message to the group (e.g.,…

This book offers information and step-by-step instructions on establishing a publishing center in schools, churches, or community groups and includes reproducible forms. The book gives ideas for such a center, a joint effort between volunteers, students, and teachers, that lets children publish their stories in a professional looking manner. The…

The language experience approach (LEA) is a means of using the knowledge of language and one's life experiences to create materials for reading and thoughtful consideration. Therefore, LEA seems to be a viable approach to use both with students who are not familiar with the language used or experiences described in a textbook and with older…

The purpose of this study was to determine the reactions of ninth-grade students to a three-week language arts minicourse program offered for three consecutive years at a junior high school in Minnesota. The students registered each year for one minicourse from a selection of approximately six. The courses were primarily activity centered and were…

Discusses a middle school level interdisciplinary science project in which students create and display their own inventions. Considers the role of science, math, language arts, writing, social studies, and computer science in the project. Describes the process whereby students become inventors and present their work. (JPB)

The teacher's handbook provides goals, objectives, and teaching strategies helpful to elementary teachers in supplementing existing law-related curriculum materials in the social studies classroom. Intended as a means of actively involving students in a study of law, the first section presents 17 lesson plans for use in grades K-2. Topics include…

The incorporation of media and technology into the classroom does not ensure the enhancement of student learning. Research has shown that students learn more through active participation in their own learning process. From 1984 to 1987, a teacher's secondary social studies students were actively involved in the National History Day Program (NHDP),…

Maintains that, although museums are visited by children and adults for their unique learning experiences, few people understand how museums and their exhibits are created. Discusses the Museum-in-Progress program. Describes four examples of elementary class projects in two states and includes a list of teacher resources. (CFR)

When students become actively involved in technology productions they develop learning skills, communication skills, and visual analysis skills, all of which are applied to real-life learning within the classroom curriculum. Students participate in all stages of the production projects, which proves to be motivating for the students and allows the…

Describes a project in which an inquiry approach to learning and teaching in an urban first-grade classroom resulted in a student-created database. Illustrates how computer integration in reading/language arts instruction caused students to participate more in group inquiry, using their individual abilities to contribute to group projects; it also…