Fragile X Syndrome, a common inherited disorder involving a fragile site on the x-chromosome, results in significant speech and language problems and diminished cognitive/intellectual functioning. Improved accuracy of diagnosis and the strong heritability component means that schools increasingly will be faced with the issues involved in educating…

Three tasks focusing on perceptions of gender toy preferences and activities and 1 addressing color and sex identification were completed by 15 boys and 15 girls aged 8-9. Children clearly differentiated between toys, activities, and colors appropriate for males and females. They viewed male gender roles and activities as more rigidly proscribed…

Sixty eight year olds in tutor-tutee pairs on two tasks (spatial-numeric and item recall) benefited from elaboration (being taught principles guiding task performance). However, when child-tutors generated their own principles for guiding learning, performance was not improved. (SK)

Interviews with four teachers, one parent, one assistant, and two ancillary helpers found that classroom teams possess little structure with minimal role definition. Participants erect defenses against the lack of definition and use a process termed "fraternity" to get along with one another and camouflage uncertainties and tensions. (SK)

Questionnaires completed by school district officers and inspectors in Great Britain and interviews with parents and staff in 11 sites found that the potential of parental involvement is underexploited. More clarity in school policy regarding parent participation and staff training in working with parents were recommended. (SK)

Responses from 159 primary teachers in the United Kingdom showed that nearly all held views of force and motion that are not in accord with Newtonian physics. Many reflect naive impetus beliefs and do not distinguish between scientific concepts, with implications for the teaching of science. (SK)

A study of a sample from the Youth Cohort Study of England and Wales compared socioeconomic background and achievements in fifth-year examinations of Afro-Caribbean, Asian, and White adolescents. In addition to differences between groups, considerable within-group differences associated with gender and socioeconomic status were found, perhaps even…

Describes an experimental project to infuse performing arts into the curriculum of a North Yorkshire residential school for emotionally and behaviorally disturbed boys, 11-16. The project involved artists in applying the Royal Opera House model, in which children take responsibility for the creation of their own musical production. (SK)

Reviews feminist literature and studies of Black female subcultures to trace the interaction of gender and race. Critiques research concerning self-concept, stereotyping, and achievement of Black pupils, concluding that antisexist and antiracist policies are needed to overcome the obstacles to intellectual development of these students in the…

Demonstrates a statistical model that can be used to develop graphical displays of uncertainty in student grade level placements versus their potential attainment. Suggests how the model can help determine how well the British National Curriculum assessments are working. (SK)

According to responses from 287 of 371 British primary school head teachers, they derive most satisfaction from interpersonal relationships and autonomy and were dissatisfied with paperwork, overload, and low status. Many more expect to be in the same position in five years than wish to be. (SK)

Survey responses from 280 British students aged 11-16 found girls well disposed toward physical education and almost as confident in their physical abilities as boys. They demonstrated no conflict between participation and notions of femininity and were more willing than boys to question the gender stereotypes assigned to sports. (SK)

A survey of 97 nursery school teachers and 104 nursery nurses (52% response) in Britain showed traditional role distinctions were blurring. Nursery teachers were more involved in planning learning and assessment and taking a leadership role. They have longer training, greater status, and wider responsibility. Overlap in roles suggests that nurses…

People with reading difficulties experience automatic gaze guidance when using gliding text (subtitles). Reading exercises with gliding text eliminated reading difficulties for 21 second graders in 24 15-minute sessions. Mean reading speed increased from 10 to 24 words per minute. (SK)

Competency-based education has certain limitations: it neglects the role of human judgment and personal motivation and focuses on isolated skills; assessment of some competencies is not practical; present standards do not help people cope with change; and standards such as Britain's National Vocational Qualifications were designed to meet the…