Cooperative learning situations are described in which children work in small groups toward a mutual goal. When such groups should be used are included, with classroom examples. (MNS)

Four of the author's favorite calculus word problems are presented. These aid students in recognizing and applying concepts in contexts unlike those in typical textbook problems. (MNS)

Examples are given of how calculator-sized pocket computers, which can receive, store, and execute BASIC programs, can be used in mathematics classrooms. (MNS)

Examines the relationship between instructional design (ID) activities and perceived project success. Analysis was based on interviews with 40 practicing instructional designers involved in 77 ID projects. Results indicate that designers don't implement all the ID activities prescribed by traditional models and that certain activities are…

Describes having a pot-bellied pig in a classroom. Students learned how to care for the pig and train it. Describes other animals in the classroom and the class putting on shows for other students. (PR)

Presents a series of investigations focusing on the biodegradable packing materials ("peanuts"), which provide a method for exploring science through experimentation. These activities can help fourth through sixth graders sharpen their critical thinking and science process skills. (PR)

Reviews the rationale for the use of simulation and game exercises as part of counselor education programs. Counselor competencies in the areas of knowledge, skills, and self-awareness are discussed; and the use of experience-based learning activities is explained, including the debriefing stage. (Contains three references.) (LRW)

Defines number sense and gives suggestions and activities for teachers to use in helping students develop number sense, including using process questions, using writing assignments, encouraging invented methods, using appropriate calculation tools, helping students establish benchmarks, and promoting internal questioning. (MKR)

Describes how teachers can help students improve their critical thinking skills by watching movie segments then writing and/or drawing what they think happened earlier or would happen later in the movie. A word processing or graphics program makes it easy to create written and graphic accounts. (SM)

Offers suggestions for presenting multiplication to elementary students at the primary and intermediate levels. At the primary level, the emphasis is on introducing the concept of multiplication; at the intermediate level, the focus is on numeration and place value (using grids and a place value game). (SM)

Suggests that teachers use genealogy as a way of increasing student interest in history. Recommends an A, E, I, O, U approach to genealogy that calls upon students to ask questions, examine documents, interview family members, organize information, and utilize local resources. Proposes parent-child genealogical study sessions, field trips, and…

Suggests using primary sources in history and social studies instruction. Offers reasons for teaching with primary sources. Proposes activities for developing students' investigative skills. Includes lessons dealing with detecting source bias, differentiating sources, using conflicting sources, and evaluating sources. Presents varied…

Describes a lesson plan that explains the role of compromise as a method of resolving conflicts for use in a sixth-grade world cultures class. Includes activities, assessment, reteaching activities, and an extension project involving student skits. (DK)

Discusses creative ways to teach elementary mathematics. At the primary level, the article suggests a book that introduces students to mathematical concepts regarding halves, calendars, and birthdays. At the intermediate level, it presents a learning activity that teaches about equivalent fractions as students design patterned squares. (SM)

Presents a collection of activities to help elementary students study ocean ecology. The activities have students investigate ocean inhabitants, analyze animal adaptations, examine how temperature and saltiness affect ocean creatures, and learn about safeguarding the sea. Student pages offer reproducible learning sheets. (SM)