Shows how writing news stories about fairy tale characters enlivens student writing classes. Suggests assignments for creating a fairy tale newspaper with news stories, obituaries, editorials and letters to the editor, advice columns ("Ask Mother Goose"), weddings and social events, sports news, and advertisements. (RL)

Examines fiction for young adults that authentically and realistically portrays the diversities and complexities of United States society. (RL)

A survey of writing research indicates positive directions for teaching composition: reflecting developmental patterns in curriculum guides; emphasizing prewriting and revising strategies; giving priority to problem solving and creative thinking skills, attending to rhetorical issues like purpose and audience, and conducting research in the…

Analyzes ways to lead group discussions of literature. Offers suggestions on what questions to ask and how to keep the discussion a stimulating experience for the participants. (RL)

An argument for increased attention to visual literacy, both as a research topic and in the classroom. (RL)

Two educators express their opinions on the relative merits of a traditional English curriculum v one that includes popular culture. (RL)

Examines the extended metaphor of "burnout" as it applies to the teaching profession. Examines three ancient Celtic invocations for the better tending of fires, which reveal ways that teachers can burn with enthusiasm without burning out from apathy. (RL)

Eight former English teachers explain how their work and training as English teachers affect what they now do. (RL)

A veteran teacher shares the "advice" he gave to his niece about teaching. (RL)

Taking two summer school courses, an English teacher reverses classroom roles and rediscovers student perspectives to instruction in poetry and composition. (RL)

Extols the virtues of going to summer conferences, which include the revitalization of a teacher's spirit. (RL)

Offers advice to teachers who want to lead student travel groups on European tours. (RL)

Presents observations by a participant in a teachers' study group on feminism in the classroom. Describes the affective behavior of group members in relation to the author's impressions of the workshop's goals and outcomes. (RL)

Reports on the difficulties a teacher had while trying to compose her first poetry assignment at the Bread Loaf School of English. (RL)

Contains reflections on the importance of teachers' summer vacations and the activities that revitalize the teaching spirit. (RL)