Describes a class activity in which a student portrays the main character of a book and is interviewed, press conference style, by the class. Argues that responses to literature can be more fun with this unusual approach. (RS)

Advocates using the satiric interview style, popularized by the comedy team of "Bob and Ray," as an ideal model for satire writing at the secondary level. (MM)

Outlines several writing activities inspired by "Mad" magazine which incorporate humor, satire, and critical thinking. (MM)

Describes several approaches to teaching Robert Westall's "The Machine-Gunners." Questions the effectiveness of several activities which are commonly used to teach imaginative texts. (MM)

Describes several patterned language books useful in helping students overcome writing apprehension by supplying them with the form, so that all they have to do is provide the creative ideas. (RS)

Provides guidelines for developing listening skills at the elementary level. Asserts that effective listening instruction occurs as part of ongoing classroom activities, and suggests that students be given a variety of different listening experiences, such as listening for appreciation, information, critical analysis, and creative exposure.…

Describes the Pittston (Pennsylvania) Area School District's Adopt-a-Book Program, in which each class formally "adopted" a favorite book to promote through a variety of displays and activities. (MM)

Features television program listings as an example of a document structure called "intersecting lists." Illustrates how intersecting lists provide a more efficient means for representing certain types of information than either prose or combined lists. (RS)

Describes a "literary gift exchange" in which students buy or make gifts for other students' favorite literary characters and explain to the class why the gifts are appropriate. Argues that the gift exchange is a good way to end the school year and review the literature studied. (RS)

Provides instructions for making and tips for using laptop flannel boards as portable and individual teaching tools. (MG)

Presents 50 short reading activities designed to occupy students during transition periods between activities or classes. Lists 35 activities which are quiet and individual, and 15 which can be done in small or large groups. (RS)

Describes a strategy for teaching Shakespeare's "As You Like It." (MM)

This presents several classroom activities that have been adapted from the Expedition Yellowstone program activities for fourth, fifth and sixth graders. Language arts, science, math, and social studies activities are presented. Expedition Yellowstone activities focus on the geology, ecology, animal life, and history of Yellowstone Park. (IAH)

Describes the use of "guided imagery tours," brainstorming, and other class activities to foster creativity and problem solving in a second-grade classroom. (DMM)

Telecommunications can provide stimulating and cost effective options for enlivening the curriculum in language arts, math, science, and social studies. Hardware and software requirements are discussed, and a resource list provided. A three week telecommunications demonstration project involving U.S. and Canadian students is also described. (IAH)