Introduces three terms--synapsis, synesthesia, and synergy--applied to writing instruction as heuristic concepts. Describes classroom exercises, such as removing transitions from an essay and asking students to restore synaptic life to the paragraphs, viewing painting masterpieces to find analogous aesthetic concepts in written composition, and…

Describes assignment sequence introducing secondary school students to finding and interpreting quotes from assigned literature by having students (1) respond in journals to a quotation chosen by the teacher, (2) analyze characterization by illustrating character traits with quotations, (3) create a collage or mobile visually interpreting quote,…

A history teacher describes an activity which involved her seventh grade class in researching, learning, and displaying a colonial craft, in order to learn more about life in colonial America. (AEM)

Examines the events leading to and immediately following the declaration of war on Mexico in 1846. Includes the second and third pages of Abraham Lincoln's "Spot Resolutions" and presents teaching suggestions for interpreting the document and assessing public opinion. (GEA)

To excite students' appreciation of language, comic book words--onomatopoeia--are a useful tool. Exercises and books are suggested. A list of books for adults and children is recommended, and a reproducible page is provided. (JL)

Events and activities directly related to the bicentennial of the French Revolution in 1989 are outlined, and literature, recordings, and films concerning the Revolution are listed. The role of the Mission du Bicentenaire is also described. (MSE)

Suggests class activities in three short articles including: (1) "Students Evaluate Reading," by Lenore Sandel; (2) "Solving Verbal Analogies," by Edward J. Dwyer; and (3) "Becoming Testwise," by Dean Schoen. (RS)

Describes a classroom assignment which is designed to motivate students' critical thinking skills concerning sex discrimination. Includes data sets for student analysis, instructions for student writing assignments, answers to student work, and suggestions for enhancing critical thinking skills. (GEA)

The third person in French grammar demands separate treatment from other pronouns because of the great differences in its rules, forms, and functions. (MSE)

This section of the journal contains computational activities designed to be used with a calculator. These activities enable students to practice skills of estimation, skip counting, place value, and computation. (RH)

Procedures for developing a variety of magic squares and magic triangles are given. A bibliography with references containing more ideas is included. (RH)

Describes two activities designed to help students evaluate potential definitions of learning. The first activity involves discussion of 10 events which may or may not be learning experiences; the second is a computer program that simulates problem solving and appears to fit most definitions of learning. (Author/GEA)

Approaches classroom instruction and teacher effectiveness by conceptualizing the physical milieu shaping teacher-student interactions. Lessons are viewed as a series of segments with three components (purpose, activity format, and assignment) that help characterize the instructional environment. Scripts are suggested to help regulate activity…

The interview with a Toronto primary grade teacher considers her reactions to the integration of two wheelchair bound children integrated into her class. Considered are discussions to prepare the class prior to the placement, activities to fully integrate the children, and management of one child's frequent seizures. (DB)

A teacher describes how a classroom diary, part of a daily classroom routine, was created through class members sharing their experiences with each other. The diary also served as a teaching tool in such areas as language arts and handwriting. (CB)