The document provides lesson plans for strengthening the thought processes, including problem solving and creative abilities, of seventh and eighth grade mentally gifted children. The lessons are organized within four of the five operations of the mind as defined by J. Guilford's Structure of Intellect (SOI): cognition (18 lessons), memory (9…

Reports on a study that investigated what constitutes metaphor and simile for sixth- and eighth-grade children. Discusses the implications of the findings for reading and language arts curriculum development and instruction. (FL)

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)

The two papers represent the result of a four-week 7th and 8th grade unit entitled the Caesar Unit. Organized using primary sources, the basic materials were a selection of Cicero's letters and Caesar's Commentary on the Civil War. The first paper, by the classroom teacher of the unit, contains brief factual information about the materials,…

Reports misconceptions identified in students with respect to the topic of parallel lines and the teaching strategies found to be useful in challenging those misconceptions. (11 references) (MDH)

Introductory Physical and Earth Science 8AB, a required course in the Los Angeles Unified School District, covers skills and concepts related to matter, energy, space science, weather, and oceanography with particular emphasis on the investigative approach. This instructional outline contains teacher guidelines and course content information.…