This article explains how elementary teachers can link performance-based assessments and student self-assessments to the curriculum for improved learning. It provides graphic organizers, rubrics, and examples of student writings, and discusses ways to connect assessment and instruction, benefits for students (feedback and instruction), and…

The classroom technique of using strategy cards in cooperative learning situations for students with learning disabilities is explained. Guidelines and a script on how to instruct students to use the cards are provided. An example of a strategy card is illustrated. (CR)

"Disc Jockey" is described as a classroom activity for junior high students with moderate/severe disabilities. The disc jockey of the day chooses music and operates a classroom tape recorder. The activity encourages students to learn days of the week, communication skills, age-appropriate behavior, and motor skills, and to develop feelings of…

Selected resources from the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) and ECER (Exceptional Child Education Resources) databases concerning play and learning of children with disabilities, accessible playgrounds, toys, and assistive technology are identified in this article. Each listing includes the title, author, and a brief description of…

Sixteen severely emotionally disturbed children in an elementary school reversed a cycle of failure through a teacher-designed innovative school day program which integrated academics and social development through such activities as relaxation and body awakening. (Author/SBH)

Productive thinking, problem solving, and strategies for coping, learning, and living are all part of the ZING curriculum for emotionally disturbed and/or learning disabled students in grades 6, 7, and 8. (Author/SBH)

Children with behavior problems were taught to model a fictional turtle who withdrew into his shell to control his anger. (LS)

A teacher of 15 educable mentally handicapped elementary school children (14 of whom were of Chicano descent) used informal and structured bilingual approaches to help children become aware of the value of their language and culture and lose their fear of working with two languages. (LS)

The Sea Beside Us for the Special Child is a project in Delaware with three goals: providing outdoor and overnight experiences for handicapped children; introducing these students to beach, bay, and marsh environments; and increasing the number of special education teachers incorporating seashore studies in their teaching curriculum. (LS)