Amargosa Valley School in Nevada could be considered representative of almost any preK-8 school that serves a large proportion of socioeconomically disadvantaged students and is focused on turning around persistently low achievement. Like other schools supported by federal School Improvement Grants, Amargosa is beginning to implement a reform plan…

The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System is an epidemiologic surveillance system that was established by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help monitor the prevalence of behaviors that not only influence youth health, but also put youth at risk for the most significant health and social problems that can occur during…

The Second International Mathematics Study investigated the status of the curriculum, achievement, and instructional practices at grades 8 and 12 in about 20 countries. The introductory first chapter explores the need for change in mathematics programs. Chapter two describes the achievement of U.S. students compared to others. At grade 8, U.S.…

Summarizes results of a study measuring eighth- and twelfth-grade students' attitudes toward computers. Sex and age differences, computer literacy course impact, and correlation of student attitudes toward computers and mathematics and science are assessed. A table giving means and standard deviations of responses to survey items is included. (MBR)

A survey study asked Australian experienced teachers during workshops to rate what they believed to be the most difficult aspects of mathematics in grades seven and eight. Problem solving, number sense, and rational numbers were rated as most difficult. The research question provided a catalyst for action in professional development programs. (MDH)

This practicum intervention was designed to improve the effectiveness of a middle school's interdisciplinary teams. While the school's sixth grade teams were judged to be effective in implementing the district's philosophy, two seventh grade and two eighth grade teams, composed of 18 teachers and 588 students, were among 70 interdisciplinary teams…

This report describes the results of an assessment of social studies for grades 4, 8, and 10 of English language schools in Manitoba. Students in each grade were given a written test, the results of which are reported here. The results of a survey of teachers of each grade also are reported. Additionally, interviews with grade four teachers and an…

Fifth and eighth grade students in New York City participated in a citywide science survey for the fourth consecutive year in 1987. These surveys were designed to assess overall achievement in the pre-high school grades and to provide school, district and citywide summary information about student performance in basic areas of the science…

This guide to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) describes its purpose, contents, uses, and research methodology by presenting 21 questions about the NAEP program. The NAEP is mandated by Congress to survey the educational accomplishments of U.S. students and to monitor changes in these accomplishments. It tracks the…