Curriculum Based Evaluation (CBE) can be utilized as part of a comprehensive programmatic assessment system for preparation of special education teacher candidates. The paper provides an overview of the following: (1) rationale for the use of a curriculum-based assessment system to measure on-going acquisition of specific content knowledge; (2)…

Explores an innovative teaching methodology designed to improve students' reading abilities. Discusses how this strategy, know as "snap shot linkage," has proven to be effective in combating not only students' inabilities to read and learn, but the anxiety that often accompanies reading activities. (SG)

Notes that using the visual arts enables students to gain better eye-hand coordination, visual representation skills, communicate ideas, and deeper understanding of the process of discovery. Considers how each of these areas contributes to the development of thinking, creating, problem solving and expressing thoughts through symbols. (SG)

Explores a particular case that sheds light on the complex issue of preventing and ameliorating children's reluctance to write. Discusses the authors' initial involvement in a case and describes follow-up interventions, including the use of reading to spark writing. Hopes to heighten researchers' and educators' awareness of the problem and…

Notes that reading teachers can incorporate a balanced approach to teaching word identification by linking learning objectives (state mandated in many areas) to authentic literature and accommodations for learning differences. Begins with the desired objective followed by a suggested instructional procedure, a specific example, three appropriate…

Argues that teachers need to think of and implement quality methods of teaching spelling. Offers 10 criteria from the psychology of learning to assist students to achieve optimally in spelling. (SG)

Focuses on the necessary elements that must be considered when preparing tutors of second language learners. Intends to guide practitioners on the information that is critical to support tutors so they can be more effective with immigrant children. (SG)

Describes a program that will provide parents with some knowledge of emergent literacy development and with simple literacy activities in which both parents and children can participate at home to encourage the development of early reading and writing skills. (SG)

Motivates teachers to apply several recommended techniques designed to improve communications within the context of studying mathematics. Suggests that mathematics teachers should help teachers of language arts courses, such as reading-in-the-content-area, by providing subject-specific examples and instructional techniques. Notes that these…

Notes that the Title I Program at the Upper Darby School District (located on the western boarder of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) created the T.O.A.S.T. (Title One After School Tutorial) program from the need for extended learning time and opportunities to assist struggling young readers. Concludes that students increased their sight word…

Notes that handwriting achievement can be assessed in degrees from being legible to being illegible. Suggests that a rubric, carefully developed and designed, may well be used to ascertain the quality of handwriting achievement. Gives a brief history of handwriting instruction. Presents 10 points for teachers to follow when teaching handwriting.…

Provides an analysis of reading and content area subject improvement through music instruction and examines the issue of teaching music in today's schools. Argues numerous benefits and advantages derive from music instruction. Discusses the use of music to increase cognitive development. Examines the benefits of music in curriculum areas such as…

Discusses how a mother's efforts to encourage her children to read in English as a foreign language were not successful until she allowed the children to select their own reading. Concludes that self-selected reading resulted in clear improvements in attitudes toward English reading and obvious gains in English competence. (SG)

Focuses on one elementary school/university partnership as a successful example of an America Reads partnership for a variety of reasons. Notes that this partnership exemplified much more than an "business as usual" attitude. Explores the types of "best practices" occurring on a daily basis, especially as they related to…

Discusses how the literature chosen for classroom instruction does not often address issues that confront students, and that teachers are faced with students who often do not want to read printed matter. Suggests winners of the Caldecott Award provide teachers with easy access to literature that will greatly enhance their knowledge of contemporary…