Teachers' commitments, or what is often called fidelity in teaching, are of obvious importance in early childhood settings. Nonetheless, fidelity in teaching young children remains an undertheorized concept. Instead of appreciating the philosophical and socio-political complexities of practice, examinations of fidelity in teaching young children…

The second article in a series of three written about teaching strategies in primary schools in England and America, this article reviews strategies used in American one-room rural schoolhouses from the late 1800s to the 1940s. Examines historical perspective, curriculum, school life, punishment, special events, and games. (SD)

Provides a theory- and research-based argument for the value of play in literacy instruction in the primary grades and offers examples of the ways teachers can create more playful phonics, read aloud, and expository writing experiences. Urges teachers to become well-versed in the values of play and be willing to educate administrators and parents…