Reports on a study of student motivation and its relationship to performance. The findings were not definitive but do point to a relationship between motivation and achievement.(MD)

Describes a special American Studies program that combines literature and history to teach American history. (MD)

Outlines a summer computer program for high school students that provides extra time and experience on computers and familiarizes students with skills needed for the Scholastic Aptitude Test. (MD)

Teachers can successfully build the underachiever's self-concept and motivation by following an organized instructional procedure currently in use. (CJH)

Outlines the importance of testing in the Mastery Learning process. Points out that as students demonstrate mastery, the amount of paperwork lessens for teachers. (MD)

Reviews the literature concerning the advantages and uses of simulation games as a mode of instruction. Offers guidelines on developing such games for classroom use. Concludes that simulation games can increase student motivation, retention, and development of social skills. (Author/WD)

By using the curriculum, teaching methods, student evaluation processes, human relations skills, and classroom management techniques in addition to verbal praise and token rewards as sources of reinforcement for student behavior and learning in the individual classroom, principals and teachers can enhance the school's educational environment. (PGD)

Two approaches to teaching the same unit of study are described. The author favors the approach that allows for student involvement and student-centered teaching. (Author/DS)

Reviews current Asian educational systems, pointing out that comparison with the United States system is not possible. The educational systems reflect the societies' needs, which differ from culture to culture. (MD)

Suggests freshman performance and school climate may dramatically improve if high school principals capitalize on freshmen enthusiasm by establishing a theme for the school year, developing a friendly orientation day, reevaluating the homeroom, and communicating with parents. (DCS)

Argues that current grading practices in some schools lack consistency in several critical areas, including criteria for failure, absolute or relative standards, and motivation of slower students. Policies are suggested that will help educators develop fairer and more humane marking systems. (TE)

Every student at one high school in Illinois is considered to be a winner. A program is described that motivates teachers to motivate students to achieve. The program features support and communication from administration and department heads through an ongoing schoolwide publicity campaign emphasizing motivational themes. (TE)

Raising academic performance to optimal levels involves providing appropriate learning experiences, using relevant external resources, encouraging positive student-teacher relations, exhibiting high expectations for academic performance, developing positive student self-concepts, and demonstrating the future utility of schooling. This article…