Shows how computer technology can be used to enhance teaching in a variety of ways, from software and simulations to networking and telecommunications. (SR)

Describes the activities in a high school English class aimed at enhancing dictionary skills by compiling a student-written "slang" dictionary. Outlines the steps taken to accomplish the task. (HB)

Describes the problems of a hypothetical disabled reader in terms of his possible lack of phonological awareness. Explains phonological awareness and its subunits with examples. Discusses research that supports the notion that phonological awareness is necessary for reading success, as well as the issue of whether children can be taught…

Argues that classroom activities offer excellent opportunities for students to become listeners. Discusses how teachers can model good listening, teach skill and strategy lessons, and provide meaningful reasons for listening. (SR)

Probes the tension between reasons to recognize differences among women and potential dangers inherent in emphasizing women's diversity, focusing on women and their communication. Suggests embracing this tension. Offers concrete instructional principles and practices (for communication courses) to cultivate respect for diversity and appreciation…

Examines the use and various kinds of talk in the English classroom. Outlines numerous kinds of talk: social talk, academic talk, writing talk, and private talk. Argues that a proper conception of the work to be carried out by talk is essential for the English teacher. (HB)

Discusses text sets as a way of grouping children to teach reading. Discusses what text sets are, why to use them, and how they are used. Suggests five steps for using text sets. Offers a list of six sample text sets of books on six different topics appropriate for use in first grade. (SR)

Describes a major portfolio project in a business-communication class which both develops students' critical-thinking skills (as they prepare five analyses of different business-communication situations chosen from a list of 10 options) and provides opportunities for their development as writers. (SR)

This author and illustrator profile focuses on the Pinkney family that includes five members who write and/or illustrate children's books. Describes illustration techniques, including scratchboard and the use of models and photographs; discusses researching story ideas; and suggests classroom activities using various Pinkney books. (LRW)

Describes the serious and pervasive problem of "doublespeak," in which language is used to deceive and manipulate in order to control behavior. Discusses why it is crucial for English teachers at every level to be reminded about doublespeak and to teach students about its perils. Describes ways English teachers can teach about and…

Lists characteristics of gifted and talented (G/T) students and analyzes how these characteristics show how G/T students can excel in writing and understanding poetry. Describes techniques for poetry writing that can help these students understand their own difference and diversity, and notes specific poetry to read about the subject. (SR)

Provides ways teachers can help English-as-a-Second-Language students connect the acquisition of English to tasks or activities related to their daily lives. Specific activities are described. (Author/VWL)

Describes the life and work of Rebecca Caudill, an author of young adult and children's literature, and discusses how she captures major characteristics of Appalachian culture. Examines four young adult novels: (1) "Tree of Freedom"; (2) "The Far-Off Land"; (3) "Barrie and Daughter"; and (4) "Susan Cornish."…

Offers a brief explanation of how middle school students are taught to read critically, discern fact from opinion, and understand that not everything printed can be accepted at face value, by using a procedure called Critical Reading Instruction That Improves Comprehension Skills (CRITICS). (SR)

Presents a classroom activity that will provide students practice in developing the essential skills of developing a profile of the primary audience. Suggests that students should also explore differences in word usage. Concludes that students will better appreciate the significant function of audience in determining the content, tone, and method…