Investigates students' ideas about gravity beyond the earth's surface. Presents a lesson plan designed to help students understand that gravity can act beyond Earth's atmosphere. Also helps students gain a more adequate intuitive understanding of how natural and artificial satellites stay in orbit. Reports that this strategy changed some students'…

This article explores some of the key issues associated with the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in the classroom. To illustrate ICT integration, a teaching project on dinosaurs, which has been developed with students ages 10-11, is presented. A detailed scheme of work and lesson plans is included. (Contains 4 references.)…

This article discusses differentiating social studies curricula and instruction for gifted students. It explains the following variables of differentiation: open-ended structure, development and presentation of separate lessons rather than units, the teaching of universal social studies concepts, motivational segments, and use of appropriate…

This article describes how teachers can develop an array of learning experiences that address varied interests and abilities of gifted students by integrating basic social studies concepts and universal themes that provide a structure for in-depth learning. It provides a social studies concept web, a thematic web, and sample lesson. (Contains 4…

An elementary school principal describes successful Foxfire projects in his school; suggests that the Foxfire approach is a tool that teachers can use to improve preinstructional decisions, structure the learning environment, and integrate the curriculum; and discusses the principal's role in supporting effective alternative approaches to…

Describes a systematic cooperative-based curriculum which enables students to comprehend, utilize, and internalize cooperative behaviors. Students practice specific behavioral strategies and social skills necessary for successful cooperation with others. Sample activities and lessons plans are included. (JD)

This section includes (1) "Time Saver Options" (Dishon and P. W. O'Leary), which outlines ways to teach cooperative skills; (2) "Getting Started--Tips from Teachers," a collection of ideas for all levels; and (3) "Cooperative Mathematics Lesson Plans" for developing problem-solving skills, fractions, word problems, and number concepts. (JD)

Describes a technique involving a story-frame concept which may be helpful in improving comprehension of content-area materials. Lists procedures for using this technique. Provides an example of a story frame for studying about Gandhi. Suggests that the value lies in enabling students to see the connection between a story and the presentation of…

Describes four guidelines (needs assessment, focusing on strengths, organizing for the learning task, and modeling strategies for teaching and learning) which help content area teachers in inservice education programs develop skills to enhance students' content area learning. Includes a lesson plan using direct instruction. (RS)

Using a simulation of the constitutional procedures on appointment of U.S. Supreme Court justices, illustrates how the separation of powers established by the Constitution affects all three branches of government. Provides an outline of the simulation procedure, a lesson plan, and a brief bibliography. (LS)

Describes the origin and function of Tibetan lineal books. Outlines a lesson plan that can be used by students in all grades to create their own lineal books. (KM)

Describes how to create paper cuts and suggests the most appropriate materials for young children that give good quality results. Describes the methods the author, a professional artist, uses to assemble her own paper cuts and how these can be adopted by older students. (KM)

Describes a framework for child-centered programs. Topics discussed include teacher attitudes, the classroom environment, lesson plans, conversation, observation, perspective-taking, and teacher self-reflection. (RJC)

Presents a lesson plan using the "jigsaw" method which encourages students to teach map skills to each other. Points out that this activity generates a sense of responsibility in students while highlighting each group member's unique skills. Provides detailed instructions for using the lesson. (KO)

Presents a nine-lesson plan that uses a French song to help improve Australian students' skills in the following areas: (1) translating from French into English; (2) listening for understanding; (3) listening for imitation; (4) oral imitation; (5) writing; and (6) researching. (CB)