A Lesson Plan Evaluation Form was developed to provide systematic quantitative data about classroom functioning in an elementary-level gifted program. Plans (n=137) from 15 teachers were analyzed, and useful information about program functioning was obtained in a cost-effective manner. Data obtained were consistent with data from more traditional…

This paper reviews the history of whole-language versus code-emphasis approaches to reading instruction. The paper concludes that students with severe learning disabilities may learn to read in a whole-language, mainstream classroom, if provided with supplemental instruction, a variety of instructional techniques, and appropriate intensity and…

Discusses setting up conversation tables on campus in cross-cultural interaction among native and nonnative speakers, presents ways to teach proverbs in the advanced classroom, describes how to use Aesop's fables to integrate all learning skills, tells how to teach make/do, and suggests ways to improve communicative skills for better accuracy and…

An anthropology professor required students to compose essay questions that they felt summarized the principal issues and objectives of the course, based on lecture content. In the final examination, students were given several of their own questions to answer. Students felt they learned more from this format. (MSE)

Two groups of 9 children (ages 10-15) with profound hearing impairments and low speech intelligibility were taught to produce consonants using either electropalatographic or traditional aural-oral techniques. Results suggest that electropalatographic techniques were at least equal alternatives to traditional aural-oral speech training techniques.…

Student portfolios provide academic advisors and college students a useful vehicle for assessment and decision making. By setting goals, developing strategies, monitoring progress, and sharing ownership, students and advisors develop a holistic approach to assessment that is mutually beneficial. Portfolios contain varied work and are tailored to…

Proposes a methodology for reviewing academic branch libraries based on Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) guidelines. A four-part model is presented, including scope and review, decision-making responsibilities, criteria for opening and maintaining branch libraries, and the final report and recommendations. Sample outlines of…

Describes a method used to enable business or organizational leaders to commit to and be accountable for training programs designed for employees or group members. The key ingredients in the development of a charter and an accountability plan are briefly described, and the application of the approach to a large manufacturing plant is discussed.…

Discusses the findings of a study designed to determine the frequency with which elementary teachers (n=21) taught science over a four week period, and which teaching strategies they utilized during that time frame one year after extensive inservice training. Results revealed that 61% of the responding teachers taught science 16 or more times over…

A whole-language approach to science can enhance student learning. Curiosity about science leads to research, reading, and writing. An example of a two-week unit on ants is presented, in which students begin by watching the ants, then organize their thoughts, research ants, write about ants, and create final projects. (SM)

A technique checklist can work well for physical education teachers who want to evaluate student behavior and performance, record quantifiable and objective information, and provide specific feedback about techniques. The article presents a checklist for beginning tennis, explaining its use and benefits. (SM)

Describes how teachers can help primary students study nature and explore the outdoors. The article explains how teachers should give nature studies priority, gather students' ideas on the subjects, assemble an exploration toolbox, measure off spots to study, dig in, return to the classroom, and create cross-curricular activities. (SM)

Discusses the contrast between traditional approaches to language arts instruction for special needs children and process-centered, communication-based approaches. Provides examples of research on process-centered, communication-based instruction for special needs children. Addresses implications suggested by this research. (RS)

Drawing on two case studies from a larger qualitative study of four public high school teachers modeling conflict-management approaches in their social-studies classrooms, this article focuses on teachers' treatment of a key concept (the idea of rights) that captures the individual's confrontation with the political society. Tolerance and…

Six male elementary school students with learning disabilities were taught multiplication facts using a computer software program with a five-second constant time delay procedure. Results indicated that the computer-assisted instructional program was effective. Learning generalized with varying degrees of success. (Author/JDD)