Ideas are presented for enhancing written expression programs for learning-disabled students. The ideas include, among others, creating a writing center in the classroom; encouraging students to share their writing with the teacher and classmates; capitalizing on such student interests as personal correspondence, a journal, and important…

States that the task of the school is to motivate and enable people to continue their education throughout life. Proposes that this goal be met by arousing students' interest in reading while they are being taught to read. Presents the criteria for a good school library and discusses ways in which student interest may be aroused. (GEA)

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)

Based upon the view that character development is not by and large the result of special lessons, but is rather embedded in and the product of the child's growth, this book focuses on how the intimacy of the ordinary day stimulates and enhances the child's potential for morality, devotion, and idealism. The book identifies general themes in the…

A collection of articles by seven teachers from varied backgrounds stresses the importance of teacher motivation. Flexibility, honesty, a good sense of humor, and an openness to new approaches are important motivating techniques. Practical suggestions are offered for stimulating motivation among students. (JN)

The reading problem facing many moderately deficient secondary students (one to three years behind grade level) is less one of skill deficiencies than attitude toward reading. Reading teachers, classroom teachers, principals, and parents can all do specific things to help students improve skills and develop the desire to read. (Author/SJL)

Describes a teacher's experiences with using partnerships with industry as a resource to motivate primary science students. The project enables students to see the relevance of classroom science to the real world and provides an opportunity for students to apply concepts learned in the classroom. (DDR)

Provides suggestions and guidance to help students who are good readers, but have low self-efficacy for taking reading tests. Discusses four sources of self-efficacy: enactive mastery; vicarious experiences; verbal persuasion; and physiological/affective state. Concludes that these four sources provide a framework for developing and evaluating…

Discusses connections between Carl Rogers and literacy by introducing Rogers' major contributions and by discussing the implementation of his ideas in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom in Taiwan. Explains Rogers' ideas about teachers as facilitators; learner-centered learning; and building freedom. Concludes that person-centered…

Discusses key areas that the teacher and librarian, working in a collaborative team for facilitating student research, need to focus on: (1) motivating students to engage in the investigation; (2) providing time for browsing and exploring; and (3) encouraging thoughtful decision making through discussion and reflection. (AEF)

This article explains how teachers can strengthen the self-efficacy of students who are struggling academically and increase their motivation for schoolwork. Instructional principles include linking new work to recent successes, teaching needed learning strategies, reinforcing effort and persistence, stressing peer modeling, and helping students…

These handouts describe: Respecting Differences to Find Common Ground (a PTA program to provide parents with ideas and resources for talking to their children about respecting diversity); tips for parents on helping their children understand and respect differences; and the Our Children Newsletter, which contains excerpts from the March 2002 Our…

Shows how the addition of intensive journalistic writing can enliven the traditional high school English class. (MM)

Describes the development of a microcomputer writing lab designed for college freshmen English students. Argues that students in the lab write more and take more pride in their finished products. (RS)

Suggestions are offered for parents who wish to support their gifted children's writing. Parents should write themselves and share their writing with their children. Parents should encourage children to write abundantly to promote children's interest and confidence. Parents should not correct or comment on their children's writing unless asked for…