Based on constructivist learning theory, this guide presents six practical menus that are intended to guide curriculum developers as they bring together an understanding of a discipline, its content and methodologies, and a vast array of instructional techniques to challenge learners on all levels. It begins with a "Knowledge Menu" that…

Providing students with the opportunity to study different cultures increases their global understanding and helps foster tolerance of cultural differences. In this lesson, grade 3-5 students read folk tales from Japan, Wales, and Africa and depict the stories visually for purposes of retelling. Students also research the countries and share a…

Five different triangle shapes cut from poster board or construction paper provide the springboard for student activities and discussions of a variety of geometric concepts from kindergarten to grade 8. (MP)

Outlines sample exercises developed in a program designed to teach minimal (threshold level) competencies based on students' communication needs and the concept of a notional syllabus. (AM)

This article discusses how Magnetic Levitation (Maglev) can be taught to gifted students in grades 4-9 using hands-on activities that align to the National Science Standards. Principles of magnetic levitation, advantages of magnetic levitation, construction of a Maglev project, testing and evaluation of vehicles, and presentation of the unit are…

Outlines an exercise dealing with the geographic concept of regions. Suggests this activity as a means of relating theory to students' personal understanding of the world. Provides a lesson plan which helps students appreciate the concept of region as an analytic tool through a "hands-on" exercise. (KO)

Maintains that the use of a microcomputer data base is useful for developing integrative learning activities with social studies as the core. Defines a data base and recommends ways to help children create and use one, giving an example of a data base project. Reviews appropriate software programs and outlines various levels of activity…

Uses role playing activities to stimulate students' problem-solving skills in dealing with the problems of Reconstruction. Lists discussion questions and suggests descriptions for the roles of radical northern Republicans, moderate Northerners, moderate Southerners, radical southern rebels, Black slaves, and foreign diplomats. (KO)

This article outlines the last step in a five-step process for preparing students to engage in a systematic mathematics problem-solving and decision-making process. The lesson plan teaches students to reread the problem, reexamine the question, check selection of operation, and recheck calculations and compare answers. (JDD)

Suggests teaching listening skills at the beginning of the school year to enhance the high school classroom learning environment. Outlines a five-step lesson plan for teaching listening skills. Notes that students can use this plan on their own. Reports a renewed interest in social studies and better performance on tests. (NL)

Outlines the stages of a cell biology "pulse-chase" experiment in which the students apply autoradiography techniques to learn about the concept of the cell cycle. Includes (1) seed germination and plant growth; (2) radioactive labeling and fixation of root tips; (3) feulgen staining of root tips; (4) preparation of autoradiograms; and…

Three self-instructional science modules were developed and pilot tested in the Jamaican secondary education system for the concept mapping, cooperative grouping, and laboratory approaches. Formative evaluation revealed that the modules enhanced teachers' understanding of the Reform Of Secondary Education (R.O.S.E.) methodology; however content of…

Summarizes how current scholarship is redefining and extending literacy understanding, materials, and instruction to encompass more than reading/writing print texts. Demonstrates principles for applying these conceptions. Offers three lesson plans and an account of their recent use to show how educators may apply changing literacy ideas to their…

Contains suggestions for lesson planning and instructional strategies that are based upon individual student needs and high teacher expectations within increasingly diverse classrooms. Discusses planning around the concept of a planning pyramid of student learning. Presents a sample lesson plan about immigration to the United States. (DSK)

Presents an alternative to traditional lecturing--Corporate Learning. Discusses problems facing today's teachers and how the program was developed. Outlines CL basics (students as teamed employees and the teacher as CEO), provides a sample lesson plan, links the process to New Jersey's workplace readiness standards, and presents the corporation's…