The history of mental computation in the elementary school curriculum is briefly described, followed by discussion of the benefits of mental computation. How thinking skills are enhanced is then illustrated. (MNS)

Argues that classroom microcomputer use should be examined within the process of classroom instruction and describes several dimensions that the teacher instructional decision-making perspective suggests as criteria for evaluating whether classroom instruction using microcomputers is pedagogically sound: teacher instructional goals, curricula,…

A class of preservice teachers was divided into teams to research geometry, measurement, probability, and statistics topics and ascertain ways each can be taught to children. Activities are set up so other students can work with them. References and materials are listed. (MNS)

An example of how geometry serves as a model in the real world is outlined, with suggestions on how it might be used at the high school level. (MNS)

Using children's verbal interactions to analyze their mathematical thinking ability is discussed. Suggestions are given for moving from a question-and-answer approach to using activities in which mathematics stimulates talk. (MNS)

Reveals the need for departments to offer course instruction in behavioral self-change. Describes a self-change course which offers students an opportunity to apply proven psychological principles to their own lives and thus meets the need for personal relevance of education. Provides suggestions for implementation of a self-change course.…

Rural and small-town Ontario, Canada is introduced through illustrations and discussions of seven typical elements that helped shape the province: cemetery, house, barn, hall, fence, roadscape, and main street. Having students make and discuss sketches is an excellent way to help them learn about the human geography of an area. (RM)

A study of the nuclear arms race usually involves curiosity about the Soviet Union. Students want to know about all aspects of the USSR. How teachers can help students see the human side of the Soviets and understand the Soviet point of view is discussed. (RM)

Fraction strips are suggested as good conceptual models to focus on the meaning of fractions. Making the strips, beginning activities, connecting symbols, more concept activities, and working with two fractions are each illustrated. (MNS)

Compares the effectiveness of two types of classroom vocabulary instruction with a noninstruction type homework assignment. (FL)

Through the use of history resource folders containing literature and primary source materials, elementary teachers can involve children in historical issues. Discusses how to design and construct the resource folders and provides suggestions for themes, source materials, and learning activities. (RM)

Traditional teaching methods often do not motivate students to take an active part in learning. Gives examples of how concepts of creativity can be realized in schools. Writing poetry, meditation, fantasy/Utopian thinking, telling stories, can all be utilized in high school political education. (Author/CS)

Discusses learning how to compose a film as one way children can learn the valuable lesson of how to give form to ideas and shape to thought. Presents the stages of composing a film and a sequence of filmmaking activities for introduction at progressive grade levels. (HTH)

Discusses how a college literature class staged a mock murder trial of the main character of Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily," using the text to substantiate the prosecution and defense. This method encouraged previously quiet students to join in class discussion and fostered a careful interpretation of the story. (HTH)

Describes a nonthreatening method for introducing videotaping to a speech class by allowing students to construct videotaped projects, such as news programs or interviews in groups. (HTH)