Rethinking the middle-level schooling process means reevaluating curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices; addressing organizational structure and attendant issues (grade configuration, grouping patterns, and the master schedule); and examining staffing issues, particularly the teacher's role. The proof of the process lies in student…

Discusses outdoor education to improve student participation and learning in skill and subject areas. Relates outdoor education to constructivism, flexible scheduling, hands-on experiences, performance-based standards, multiple intelligences, cooperative learning, and interdisciplinary curriculum. Lists Web sites related to outdoor education. (DLH)

Discusses differentiation in terms of the instructional program, school organization, staff development, and extensions beyond the classroom. Suggests learning activities with differing levels of cognitive challenge as vehicles for differentiated classrooms. Focuses curriculum on global citizenship and themes of identity, connections,…

Explains how teachers differentiate their teaching practices to support inclusive classrooms. Discusses system of democratic governance, culture of collaboration, commitment to and capacity for professional growth, strong leadership, and concern about equity and the success and well-being of individual students as factors for transforming school…

One of the major objectives of programing for the educable mentally retarded is the development of the individual's economic competency or efficiency. In order to reinforce this objective it is necessary that classroom activities employ real money and that some type of work experience be provided so that students learn to manage a given amount of…

Asserts that concern for academic success across the curriculum should extend beyond raising test scores. Contends that in the wake of the terrorist acts of 9/11/01, issues of public security and civil liberties present an opportunity for teachers to teach the Constitution and its amendments in an effort to fight citizen ignorance. (SD)

At one Pennsylvania school, building a model airplane is a learning experience used to assess the abilities of students with reading difficulties. Specific model-building behaviors that can be observed are gathering information, employing prior knowledge, summarizing, visualizing, predicting, self-monitoring, evaluating, measuring, calculating,…

Unlike medicine, architecture, or accounting, the teaching profession has not codified the knowledge, skill, and dispositions accounting for accomplished practice. The National Board Certification system now under development addresses three critical elements: standards setting, assessment, and professional development. The system will be field…

Describes a social action model for teens to address concerns in their community with adult assistance. Identifies five program principles: (1) adult faith in youths' capacity to contribute meaningfully; (2) preparation and support for roles young people select; (3) student selection of the project; (4) acceptance that problems occur; and (5)…

Examines educational research on the effects of rewards and punishments on students' academic performance. Discusses findings on the effects of extrinsic and intrinsic rewards, locus of control with students or teacher, the benefits of celebrations and rewards, and implications for the classroom. (JPB)

Notes that the current trend of inclusion challenges teachers to create classroom environments in which all learning styles are embraced. Discusses three basic areas teachers can influence to help students experience success: classroom climate, extracurricular activities, and traditional curriculum. Suggests inclusive activities in traditional…

Reviews precedent-setting cases dealing with sexual harassment by school personnel and school peers, noting similarities in the legal remedies used to assign liability. Summarizes these legal remedies and discusses the implications of the cases for educators. (JPB)

Discusses issues in creating safe and secure learning environments in public schools. Cites anecdotal and statistical evidence of the dangers students present to themselves and others, and briefly considers ways to make schools safe. (JPB)