Cognitive deficits in black and other minority children have been assumed, described, and then explained. In direct and indirect ways, the "evidence," especially in the broad public domain has been mounting to suggest a genetic cause for discovered differences between racial groups on test of aptitude and achievement. It is the purpose of the…

Two of the groups whose relationship represents one of the most critical social problem areas are also the groups on whom there is a large amount of data. These are American Negroes and American Caucasians, or in today's terminology, blacks and whites. Some data relevant to the design of programs of social action suggest the following: The mean…

The contents of this book, which presents the fruits of one of a series of conferences organized by the National Research Council Committee on Basic Research in Education, includes 12 papers, with discussion and comments: "Introductory Remarks," Ernst W. Caspari; "Quantitative Aspects of Genetics and Environment in the Determination of Behavior,"…

Describes how a series of models can be constructed to illustrate the structure of eukaryotic chromosomes, emphasizing the structure of DNA. Suggests that by adapting a different scale for each series of models, a complete picture of the complex nature of the chromosome can be built up. (TW)

Presents practical teaching suggestions selected from commercially available materials and also submitted by readers that can easily be adapted to different grade levels. Contains eight computer based activities which provide experience with spreadsheets, random number functioning, word puzzles, survey plotting, graphics, and Logo programming. (ML)

This book is a compendium of papers presented March 18-20, 1996, at the eighteenth annual Spectrum of Developmental Disabilities course. Research findings are presented that address identification, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of specific reading disability. Individual chapters include: (1) "Dyslexia: The Evolution of a Concept" (John…

This lesson for grade 12 is designed to raise student awareness of the potential of human cloning and of the effects it could have on the present, naturally born population. Students work in teams to research the issue and are provided with background information, detailed instructions, on-line resources, and reflection questions. The teacher's…

This curriculum module explores genes, environment, and human behavior. This book provides materials to teach about the nature and methods of studying human behavior, raise some of the ethical and public policy dilemmas emerging from the Human Genome Project, and provide professional development for teachers. An extensive Teacher Background…

A reply to Plomin's critique and some criticisms of Munsinger's review of adopted child literature are presented. Selective bias in adoptee samples, implicit assumptions in models that lead to heritability estimates, and problems produced by lack of an accepted model of environmental transmission are also discussed. (Author/RD)

A study involving 356 twin pairs with early language delay found environmental influences shared by both twins were more substantial than genetic factors. Heritability was significantly higher in those with persisting difficulties but only when assessed in terms of parental concern at 3 years or professional involvement at 4 years. (Contains…

This article focuses on methods useful for identifying differences in the development of language reading abilities in children that rely on measures of brain responses and behavioral assessments. Findings from these methods are described and indicate that even behaviors strongly influenced by biological mechanisms can be influenced through…

A paper model which is designed to give students a hands-on experience during lecture and blackboard instruction on DNA structure is provided. A list of materials, paper patterns, and procedures for using the models to teach DNA structure and replication are given. (CW)

Seven papers present international perspectives on the relationship between education and child development. Conclusions reached in research on developmental genetics, cognitive development, and classroom instruction are considered, characterizing the current state of knowledge with respect to the influence of education on achievement outcomes.…

Contrasted are DNA viruses, RNA viruses, and RNA retroviruses. The structure, genome, and replication of retroviruses are discussed. The discovery, structure, and action of the HIV virus are described. A list of 17 references is included. (CW)

Reviews research on the heritability of intellectual factors, personality factors, and psychopathology. Discusses the importance of investigating within-family environmental differences in order to understand the environmental origins of individual differences in development. (Author/BJV)