Presents research highlights indicating the success of the Core Knowledge Curriculum in raising test scores, building teacher enthusiasm, and lessening the need to reteach concepts at the beginning of the school year. Preliminary results from several elementary schools are highlighted. (GR)

Compares two social studies textbooks for second graders, one standard curriculum (SC) text and the other from the Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC). It argues that the SC textbook is boring and overly simplified, while the CKC textbook is interesting and considerably more informative. It suggests that elementary school students are fully capable of…

Discusses the impact of the Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC) on the nature of inservice and professional development. Describes one approach to help teachers upgrade their own knowledge in CKC subjects. (GR)

Examines the problem of children not learning to read well enough for reading to have a positive impact on their lives. It shows that while a large body of research exists on reading instruction, much of this knowledge has not made its way into the classroom. Five points about the reading problem and teaching effectiveness are addressed. (GR)