The authors recommend a reading tutoring lesson framework, in a checklist format, to guide volunteer tutors during tutoring sessions for children in elementary grades 1-3. The reading tutor checklist is intended to be used by literacy coaches, reading specialists, and classroom teachers to train literacy volunteers in schools. The checklist…

Curriculum-based measurement (CBM) is recommended as an efficient, objective, flexible, and reliable way to compose ability-based instructional groups in both regular and special education settings. Steps for using CBM and specific applications for grouping in reading and mathematics instruction are offered. (DB)

Four ways of using curriculum-based measurement (CBM) in instructional decision making and monitoring of mathematics operational skills are described. These are evaluating progress and determining modifications; targeting skills for instruction; judging the adequacy of end-of-year goals; and determining effectiveness of different interventions.…

This paper uses the topic of rain forests to demonstrate how a meaningful and relevant Science, Technology, and Society program can be designed for intermediate-level students. Students create and immerse themselves in a tropical rain forest, explore the forest ecosystem and peoples, and consider solutions to the problem of deforestation. (JDD)

Strategies are presented for dealing with factors that can be responsible for failure in mathematical problem solving. The suggestions include personalization of verbal problems, thematic strands based on student interests, visual representation, a laboratory approach, and paraphrasing. (JDD)

This article explores art as a vehicle for self-expression in students with emotional disturbances. Art activities can help students understand themselves and empathize with others and can help educators understand students' feelings. Activities are presented for focusing on negative and positive feelings and on ambivalent feelings. (JDD)

A framework is presented for applying error analysis of oral reading to decisions about placement and instruction. The focus is on assessment practices that rely on the stimulus material of daily instruction and that facilitate decision making on both what and how to teach reading. A case study illustrates application of the procedure. (JDD)

This article explains how cooperative-learning behaviors can be taught systematically and directly to students with behavior disorders using a four-step procedure in conjunction with an enhanced cooperative-learning environment to encourage generalization. Application with five primary grade students is reported. (DB)

Tips for successful parent-teacher conferences concerning children with special needs focus on preventing a conflict cycle and developing a cooperation cycle. Specific suggestions to reduce stress levels and involve parents positively are offered for preconference behaviors, conference behaviors, and postconference behaviors. (DB)

A systematic process for planning, implementing, and maintaining peer-tutoring interventions is presented. Academic and social benefits of peer tutoring are briefly documented. The process includes four components: planning, training, monitoring/evaluation, and problem solving. (DB)

The article describes an approach to infusing human dignity into the social studies curriculum through (1) planned instruction, (2) teacher-child interaction, and (3) school responses to unacceptable behavior. Recommended practices for each of the three components are offered. (DB)

The article briefly reviews the research and controversy concerning sex education for handicapped children and offers five guidelines including build self-esteem, answer questions clearly and accurately, avoid threats and jokes, and respect children's privacy. (DB)

The article describes 15 staff/student prereferral intervention strategies developed by teachers in Montgomery County (Maryland) for use with students having academic difficulties. Strategies are concerned with self-monitoring, metacognition, curriculum integration, simplifying English, study skills, home reading, and mentoring. (DB)