This article clearly defines the three crucial pre-implementation principles to maximize the success of Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) in large high schools. Establishing clear understanding for the need of the SLC initiative is the first of these principles. Long term commitment to a sustained plan for relevant SLC professional learning…

Describes an eight-year study in curriculum development at the University of Chicago, involving 30 school systems and featuring summer workshops in curriculum planning and evaluation. Shows how the experience validates observations made by Joseph Schwab in "The Practical 4: Something for Curriculum Professors to Do" (Curriculum Inquiry…

Outlines a plan for a multidimensional language curriculum consisting of four components--language, culture, communicative activities, and general language education. (EKN)

Addresses moral choices that lie behind practical proposals made by Joseph Schwab in "The Practical 4: Something for Curriculum Professors to Do" (Curriculum Inquiry 13:3, Fall 1983). Choices include (1) a problematic/inquiry approach to the theory/practice relationship; (2) a sense of community in planning groups; and (3) an operative,…

Presented are critical comments on the British Schools Council, Science Committee, Programmes of Work 1980-82, and financial allocations to various curriculum and instructional projects. The author's personal frustrations while serving on the Science Committee are also given. (JN)