Most research shows no correlation between homework and student achievement and finds homework for primary grades inappropriate and counterproductive. After summarizing major purposes and types of homework and associated problems, the article provides seven recommendations for developing a workable school policy. (MLH)

Recently, each department at Green Mountain Union High School (Chester, Vermont) was asked to update its curriculum and research current theories on the use of homework through national organizations. Teachers in each department then prepared current practice statements and developed policy statements concerning homework's value. (MLH)

The A to F grading pattern is a highly subjective practice that demands great expertise and assumes a high degree of test validity. This article discusses the merits of extra credit assignments, homework, and "pop" quizzes; outlines defensible grading procedures; and discusses common grading problems, such as using grades as weapons. (MLH)

Assigning points to denote student achievement levels and converting point totals to semester grades is a common practice. This article reviews the advantages of point systems and discusses certain problems, including misplaced emphasis on learning objectives and reduction of teacher judgment and responsibility. Teachers should downplay the…

Good grades on a report card do not necessarily mean the material has been comprehended. This article examines the relative worth of grades; extra credit assignments; categorizing students into A, B, or C boxes; and the role of parental pressures for higher grades. Grading systems should be subordinate to true learning motivation. (MLH)

In response to public outcry for higher academic standards, schools have considered imposing no-pass/no-play rules governing access to extracurricular activities, particularly athletics. This article examines justification for imposing the C-average rule from an educational psychology viewpoint. (MLH)

Eligibility standards for participating in extracurricular activities are definitely needed. The question is whether minimal or more restrictive standards are most effective to meet academic requirements. This article presents arguments for both minimal and higher standards and suggests that chosen standards should be a positive motivating force.…

Computer-generated report cards must be analyzed, evaluated, explained, and acted upon in the same manner as any other professional report. Followup with analysis and recommendations combining information and professional advice must occur. Five helpful suggestions are included. (MLH)

Valedictorians are not always the most accomplished students because some academically gifted youth take easy courses to maintain their grade point averages, although others risk their grades by taking more challenging classes. To address this problem, Bear Creek High School (Jefferson County, Colorado) created higher academic standards and…

Presents survey results of a study to determine if valedictorians differ from other superior students regarding background, homelife, hobbies, and future aspirations. Valedictorians surveyed were highly competitive and self-disciplined, driven by inner goals, participated in numerous hobbies and extracurricular activites, and had well-educated…

Discusses progress in the southeastern states regarding mandated testing for would-be principals and summarizes results of a nationwide survey. Responses indicate that 12 states currently require special written examinations and show a movement toward state-mandated examinations for principals. Includes three references. (MLH)

Explores the relationship between knowledge and change and asks what knowledge is of most worth. Outlines 10 knowledge skills providing learners with the basis for coping with change. Failure to master these skills will leave future adults powerless in a complex, power-driven world. (MLH)

Explores constraints on principals' ability to serve as instructional leaders, including definition problems, current training and selection practices, the nature of teaching, lack of incentives, and the limits imposed by collective bargaining agreements. The principalship must be dramatically changed if principals are to become instructional…

The brain's capability to apprehend complex information at multiple levels is ignored when teaching is limited to rote or "symbol-specific" learning. Educators should be concerned with increasing neurological networks or "maps" representing richness of content, instead of teaching isolated, segmented facts along well-worn pathways. Includes nine…

Explores whether student activities in middle schools (1) contribute to students' educational progress and (2) should be afforded the same critical scrutiny as academic curricula. Results of a junior high school survey indicate that student activities enjoy a high degree of support and can be a powerful vehicle for achieving intended learning…