Mnemonic strategies that use imagery and visual cues to facilitate memory recall are commonly used in the classroom. A familiar tune, song or jingle, used as a mnemonic device is another popular memory aid. Studies of the brain and memory reveal that exposure to music not only alters but increases brain function in students. The purpose of this…

Dr. Greene answers the following question in this brief article focusing on fitness: Everyone knows that children need plenty of exercise to stay healthy--But what does "fitness" really involve for young children? Following this discussion, the topics presented include: snack of the month; nutrition fact; and activities, "Move to the Music" and…

Discusses the inaccuracy of the rule which states "Write i before e except after c. . ." and urges the adoption of a simplified spelling system. (DD)

With the inspiration, the originality, the skill and craftsmanship, the business acumen, the patience, and the luck, it's possible to become a classical composer, pop/rock/country composer, jingle composer, or educational composer. Describes these careers. (Editor/RK)

Presents authentic Spanish rhymes and jingles that elementary school foreign language teachers can incorporate in classroom activities. The rhymes not only introduce children to the oral and cultural traditions of the language but also serve as language drills for increasing Spanish vocabulary. (CB)

Discusses the importance of the spoken word and the tradition of nursery verse and other forms of poetry. Encourages teachers and students to never abandon the rhythm, balance, and pleasurable taste of language as it was first learned through oral chants, jingles, and rhymes of early childhood. (MG)

Examines how one teacher combined jump rope jingles and computerized telecommunications to create a cross-cultural curriculum, having students use electronic mail to collect data from and play games with other students nationwide. The article also describes technology tools to link students with an international community of learners. (SM)

This article discusses a better way to provide consistent communication with parents and showcase students' work. Podcasts are similar to favorite episodic radio shows or audio blogs, but are unique in that no longer must the listener tune in to a weekly show--or fear missing a favorite show. Favorite podcast programs can be automatically…

Points out that a key to discipline is the developing of a fun-filled friendship between adults and children in the child care environment. Suggests that "me vs. you" situations can be avoided by distracting the child with something interesting and fun, such as directions given in the form of a jingle or song. (RWB)

In Australia, Gardner's multiple-intelligences theory has strongly influenced primary, preschool, and special education. A survey of 30 schools revealed that teachers use two basic approaches: teaching to, and teaching through, multiple intelligences. The first approach might develop children's music skills via playing an instrument. The second…

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…

This guide is to assist teachers with motivational ideas for teaching elementary school mathematics. The items included are a wide variety of games (paper and pencil, verbal, and physical), jingles, contests, teaching devices, and thought provoking exercises. Suggestions for selection of mathematical games are offered. The devices are used to…

Intended for teenage readers, this book profiles 13-year old Shannon Anderson. Shannon lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her grandmother, her two sisters, and two cousins. Shannon, who is an Ojibway Indian, practices the fancy shawl dance. This traditional dance requires the dancer to use fancy footwork and twirl a shawl. Shannon's younger…

An annotated bibliography of 150 short, light, humorous reading materials suitable for reluctant readers at three levels of elementary school. (DD)

In their unique approach to education, Montessorians are challenged to create an academic forum that engages the mind and the hand, and most importantly, the heart. It is in essence the heart of the adolescent that gives birth to the adult, and the mind and the hand follow along. However, there can be barriers to accessing the engagement of the…