Presents an instructional model for the library-based Evaluating Sources workshops in which students learn about bibliographic materials and how to use them to uncover the disciplinary context of a reading that is particularly important to the direction of a given course. Notes that this basic model can be used across the university curriculum.…

Discusses performance appraisals in business. Describes a performance appraisal assignment that involves written assignments, role-playing an appraisal interview, and subsequent discussion of issues that arise. Includes several figures describing assignment activities. (SR)

Describes a word game developed by a sixth-grade teacher that has groups of students "bid on" and "buy" words, with the object of forming as many grammatically correct sentences as possible. Points are awarded based on sentence length, correct punctuation, and sentence type (simple, complex, or compound). (MDM)

Describes three approaches to writing a persuasive sales letter that require the student to either taste a product, try out an item, or touch an object before writing the sales letter to a prospective audience. Describes preassignment activities, the assignment, and student reaction to the activities. (SR)

Provides a guide for helping students perform melodramas via the intercom. The benefits include motivating students to read and heightening student self-esteem. Suggests five elements for a successful performance: a clearly written script, rehearsals, optimal voice levels and microphone distance, an introduction by the principal, and…

Describes field and classroom activities to conduct investigations of insects that emphasize capture and release rather than capture for semipermanent collections. Provides contact information for the Young Entomologists' Society, Inc. (JRH)

Outlines ways in which instructors of business communication can use the Internet more effectively while teaching. Argues that by augmenting business communication courses with e-mail and Internet protocols, instructors can reach larger segments of their classes, stimulate discussions, create simulations, and strengthen their relationships with…

Presents a case study for use in business communication classes regarding the ethics of resumes and recommendations. Presents the case itself as well as discussion questions and assignments. (SR)

Describes a teacher's discovery of the possibilities for using the electronic mail and the Internet in his eighth-grade language arts classroom. Shows how he makes connections with other educators across the globe and outlines some of the ways in which the Internet is organized. Offers justification for student use of the Internet as an…

Explains how teachers can use written compilations of student-generated questions and comments as a basis for discussions of novels and poems. Shows that student brainstorming ideas can be used effectively as the basis for writing assignments. (TB)

Discusses the comedy in Eudora Welty's only children's book, "The Shoe Bird," and ways the book may be used in the elementary grades. (SR)

Describes how to use children's books as the basis for writing sessions. Focuses on having children write fiction after reading and listening to historical fiction. (SR)

Pictorial flashcards, particularly with effective use of color and humor, are recommended for effective secondary school Spanish classrooms. Student participation in flashcard creation, thematic cards as teaching tools, and class activities are described. (LB)

Describes four ways (and several class activities) to make the meanings of media texts more visible to students while teaching the basics of critical theory. Analyzes (1) codes and conventions of language; (2) personal pleasure, understandings, and experience; (3) cultural, ideological meanings; and (4) commercial overtones and economic…

Presents a rationale for using trade books and other literature in social studies. Discusses selection of appropriate supplementary reading materials. Presents strategies for integrating literature into social studies. Concludes that, when used in conjunction with the text and other basal resources, literature provides an interesting and enriching…