An activity in which children can learn the concept of the sizes of planets in comparison to the size of the earth is described. Activity questions are included. (SA)

Mess Management is considered here as collective problem solving. Describes an example of a program for gifted elementary students emphasizing problem solving skills. A sample strategy is included. (MA)

Offers suggestions of ways to encourage problem solving activities on the playground. (MA)

Describes what happens when a student and teacher have a negative confrontation. Also discusses what effect external assistance can have in bringing about change in the interaction. (Editor/RK)

Describes a historical approach to English that concentrates on early American literature and historical fiction culminating in a writing project based on incidents taken from local history. (Author/RK)

A disabled reader and how he was helped: a case study. (Editor)

Approaches children's learning in learning science based on skilled observation by professional teachers, rather than on tests devised by outside agencies. (Editor/RK)

Students who were formerly shy and withdrawn returned to class with glowing expressions of accomplishment and self-worth. (Editor)

Describes an economics game for adult education designed to simulate the real world by setting up national economic policymaking in which participants can exercise their own judgment. Assesses some of the conclusions to be derived from the use of such a game. (MF)

Illustrates how the "Big Six Skills" model of information problem solving (Task Definition, Information Seeking Strategies, Location and Access, Use of Information, Synthesis, and Evaluation) is a perfect match to the influx of technology in student research. Outlines two typical assignments that focus the Big Six perspective on the…

Reports a study of the quality and extent of understanding of certain well-known theoretical concepts which are held by prospective teachers (N=173) of chemistry in Yemen. Results indicate that teacher understanding ranges from a partial understanding with a specific misconception to no understanding. Contains 25 references. (DDR)

A word problem concerning weights of a pail containing different amounts of nails appeared in January 1997 issue of Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School. Teachers were invited to try the problem with classes and submit examples of students' work with a brief analysis. This article contains three student solutions. Argues that posing such…

Examines the dynamic common to the English-as-a-Second-Language classroom in which the teacher takes from the student the burden of the next step in solving a problem, identifies four reasons this is inappropriate, looks at why teachers do it, and offers techniques for handling such situations. (MSE)

Describes the Six Through Eight Mathematics (STEM) middle school mathematics curriculum project. Emphasizes that the use of thematic modules promotes students' development and application of mathematical concepts in broad contextual situations. Presents an assessment criteria for teachers and focuses on the use of open questions and their role in…

Examined the relationships among individuation, stress level, and problem-solving abilities of college students (N=261). Results indicate a significant relationship between individuation level and problem-solving ability and between stress level and problem-solving ability. Implications for counseling and for future research are discussed. (RJM)