Twenty kindergarten classrooms were observed during two full days of integrated language instruction. Over 300 observed literacy tasks were analyzed by activity format, duration, cognitive complexity, organization, and participation structures. Results indicated that, although most of the activities were meaning based, over half of the observed…

Describes a telecommunications project in Texas that used inexpensive laptop computers for word processing with classes of low-achieving tenth-grade language arts students. Highlights include parent involvement; student writing processes; telecommunication with other students via the Texas Education Network (TENET); database use; and student…

Discusses language across the curriculum movement and its impact on current social studies teaching. Asserts that social studies as a form of literacy means being able to understand the world from multiple perspectives. Recommends that social studies teachers implement inquiry and language principles across the curriculum. (CFR)

Presents six library activity guides for reading/language arts, science, and social studies. Each guide contains a section on library media skills objectives, curriculum objectives, grade levels, resources, instructional roles, activities and procedures for completion, evaluations, and follow-ups. (AEF)

Discussion of science education reform focuses on elementary school science. Highlights include integrating science instruction with other curricular areas; children's trade books; and an annotated bibliography of 36 items that suggest teaching strategies for integrating science and language arts curricula using children's literature and trade…

Describes an instructional unit on ancient Egypt that incorporates math, science, art, music, language arts, social studies, reading, and children's literature. (RS)

Discusses an integrative study of a seventh grade language arts class in which students were given the opportunity and the challenge of designing their own course of study. Describes designing the unit, getting started, exploring death and dying, class discussions and journal writing, literature groups, and individual papers. (RS)

Examines factors that caused resistance to California's recently mandated approach to reading and language arts instruction that focuses on authentic literacy experiences. Discusses pressures from teachers, administrators, and parents; shifts in student population; and testing. Presents illustrative scenarios from California schools. Suggests ways…

Several elementary teachers share across-the-curriculum ideas for the classroom. The article presents suggestions for completing Columbus Day book projects, Columbus commemorative displays, planet activities, archaeology projects, letter writing activities, student-generated profiles, number challenges, book reviews, and critical thinking…

Compares differences in achievement of below-grade-level students receiving basal reading instruction with peers in a writing-process-oriented language arts program. Finds that language arts students spent more time reading and writing, were exposed to more types of literature and writing activities, and exhibited more positive attitudes toward…

Replies to Carole Edelsky's response to the authors' article on the schism between proponents of whole language and traditional language arts instruction. Defends the questions posed by the authors' research agenda, and suggests that diverse research methodologies can be employed in tandem to address them. Calls for collaboration among…

Describes an approach in which students develop a book about themselves that combines photography and word processing skills. The project is based on the whole-language model of teaching literacy that develops reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. (MLF)

Describes a nonfiction genre study in a first-grade class in which reading and writing minilessons focused on nonfiction, and the children were required to read nonfiction and write a piece in that genre. Notes that, by the end of the nonfiction study, the group exhibited confidence and comfort with nonfiction. (SR)

Discusses aspects of high-quality language arts instruction for African American children and for all children. Suggests that literacy learning starts early and continues throughout life; is used to make meanings out of the world; takes place through active involvement and use; is influenced by language and cultural background; and is influenced…

A checklist is presented to help structure systematic observation and diagnosis of students' handwriting. A breakdown of handwriting skills is accompanied by possible problem behaviors and related factors (such as grasp of writing instrument and motor skills) to consider in error analysis. The most common elements diminishing legibility are…