The literature of science fiction packs up the facts and discoveries of science and runs off to futures filled with both wonders and warnings. Kids love to take the journeys it offers for the thrill of the ride, but they can learn as they travel, too. This book will provide the reader with: (1) an overview of the past 500 years of scientific…

Writing classes ought to be among the most creative environments imaginable, but sadly, some writing teachers seem to think that their own writing ability, in proximity, is enough to get students started. A good writing teacher must be a constant student of creativity, always searching for new ways to teach, new inspirations, new forms of…

Discusses seven listening experiences designed to open children's ears to sound. (Author/RK)

It is becoming recognized that participative training techniques are often the most effective. Article deals with two groups of these techniques. (Editor/RB)

Describes the nature of the creative act and discusses creativity as the foundation of learning. Also examines the qualities of creative teachers and environments. (Author/CM)

Likening gifted teaching to artistry in other fields, such as music, the author reports on some experimental attempts to define virtuosity in teaching. The qualities he delineates include common sense, intuition, imagination, understanding of both subject and learner, and dexterity in "staging" learning experiences. (SJL)

Explains that music has many benefits for learners on the autism spectrum, providing an alternative means of communication for those who are nonverbal, and helping organize verbal communication for others. Music can improve self-esteem as children participate in activities they can potentially excel in. Playing a musical instrument gives people…

Presents five high school teachers' ideas about how to create a desirable environment for their students' learning in English classrooms. (SG)

One way to ensure that students are exposed to important ideas in a textbook is to use thinkers' cards with presentations. Student is given a colored card that they use to record a summary of the reading, issues the author doesn't address, and a thought-provoking question for discussion. (MLW)

Offers some recommendations for electing and training geography teachers. Teachers should be proficient in world geography, cartography, and computer use and possess field training that is easily replicated in school settings. A positive attitude and creative teaching methods are essential. Includes one reference. (MLH)

The interact simulation environment has the potential to overcome problems associated with simulations by improving the lack of cost effectiveness, providing online guidance to students, and tailoring the supporting material to suit a wide range of contexts. Results show a flexible teaching and learning environment allows for teacher creativity.…

Presents the screenplay synopsis and examples of scenes from a video that describes how one Hawaiian elementary school developed a video-literacy curriculum project, including how the project got started, hurdles that had to be overcome, and lessons learned from the experience. (SM)

Ideas to help teachers develop motivating lessons that use information from nature for outdoor learning include getting comfortable with the outdoors, choosing familiar sites and subjects, studying several items at once, having a back-up plan ready, choosing open-ended activities, not worrying about students' questions, and listening to common…

Presents 50 hands-on, amusing math activities to inspire elementary students to enjoy learning such math concepts as estimation, linear measurement, weight, volume, time, and temperature. Each activity is typed on a 5x7 index card and has an answer sheet. Following a minilesson, each student receives a card activity to complete. (SM)