Offers arguments for the use of published textbook material as a basis on which to mold the unpredictable interactions necessary to classroom language learning. Suggests that textbooks are useful for orientation and independent study and describes the gradual process of replacement by which new textbook materials evolve. (Author/MES)

Suggests that social scientists use the reading of literature to enhance their instruction about contemporary situations. (AEA)

Since instructional materials are important to the educational development of students, their proper selection and use is fundamental. Each student should be considered individually, and course materials should be made available on levels which provide a variety of reading experiences, encourage critical thinking, and motivate creative activity.…

Describes a reading scheme involving classroom use of books the children chose themselves. (HOD)

Discusses the notion of "authentic materials" (i.e., not designed for pedagogical use) and the problems of using them in a French-as-a-second-language classroom. Methods for using these materials are suggested. (AM)

Offers suggestions to help teachers, especially bilingual teachers, adapt and rewrite reading materials that can guide children through the desired emotional and intellectual experiences. (HOD)

Describes a systematic approach to selecting instructional designs, discussing performance analysis, gaps, elements (inputs, conditions, process, outputs, consequences, feedback), matrices, changes in performance state (establishing, improving, maintaining, and extinguishing performance), intervention interference, and involving others in…

Proposes that the Internet can be a valuable source of information for teachers who use or plan to use Readers Theatre in their classrooms. Provides a brief description of Readers Theatre and its many benefits for literacy learning. Describes Internet sources for scripts and for information on implementation, additional classroom applications, and…

Argues that to personalize the social studies for students, textbook units of study should be accompanied by well-chosen, related fictional readings. Argues that teacher-directed activities focusing on the fictional stories can reinforce concepts, attitudes, and skills in the social studies for students at all grade levels. (RS)

Presents three ideas to help teachers who have only one computer for the entire classroom. The suggestions include having the teachers use the computer themselves to enhance productivity, hooking the computer up to a visual display, and looking for curriculum packages that inspire groups, not individuals. (SM)

Claims that the novel "Strange Attractors" by William Sleator proves to be an effective and engaging reading selection for middle school readers. Suggests methods for using the novel in the classroom, and samples student response to the book. (HB)

Discusses the need for young adult literature about the disabled, selection criteria for these books, and methods of presenting them to adolescent students. A list of recommended books includes 20 fiction and 9 nonfiction titles. (MES)

Suggests ways that the classroom teacher can convey to students through learning experiences their role as readers. (RS)

Focuses on the importance of choice in literature-based reading programs. Describes the Goldilocks Strategy, a technique to help students learn to make independent choices about the books they read. (MG)

This article addresses the censorship of reading material and the education of gifted students. It argues that, in order for parents and teachers to nurture gifted children in the market place of ideas, all ideas must be available. Forms of censorship are defined and guidelines for selecting books are provided. (Contains references.) (CR)