The objective of this paper is to explain the need for and defend the sufficiency of the child's-play method of teaching the place value notation concept to preschool and elementary school children. Discussion first illustrates error patterns of school children in the use and interpretation of place value notation, arguing that the errors reflect…

Argues that statewide performance based assessments are a waste of time and money and can discourage students. After describing problems with performance based assessment in several states, the paper suggests that it is more important to restore students' respect for and interest in education by offering challenging curricula rather than dull…

This article explores the issue of ethical impact of conversation in the classroom, arguing that the experience of critical inquiry conducted through classroom dialog can cultivate precisely those ethical characteristics required of participants in the public life of a deliberative democracy. (SM)

Suggests that while language variation is widespread and natural, it is subject to judgment and that where a standard has developed other varieties are judged against the standard. Investigates how teachers judge the speech of school-aged students and what influences that judgment. Results show teachers' perceptions of speech were most strongly…

This paper reexamines the logic supporting ideas of differences and inclusion for students with disabilities, critiquing a range of perspectives on special education and suggesting that people consider the ways that the symbiotic relationships between regular and special education constrain theory making. (SM)

Describes two intuitive rules underlying students' conceptions in mathematics and science that are not always compatible with usually accepted scientific ideas. The intuitive rules are: "More of A, more of B" and "Subdivision processes can always be repeated." In teacher education, it is important to raise instructors'…

Discusses writing assignments and instructional support needed when the primary purpose of writing is to help students reformulate their subject-matter knowledge. Research on grades one-three illustrates ways in which two writing assignments offer different opportunities to learn about American history. (BB)

Presents an overview of available research and clinical understanding of the effects of exposure to violence on school-age and younger children. Suggestions for future research and public policy initiatives are offered. (GR)

Describes one elementary teacher's experience when a minor event (a student forgetting to bring a permission slip and lunch for a field trip) resulted in a major class lesson in responsibility. Another teacher and a social worker present their perspectives on the situation and provide suggestions for teaching responsibility. (SM)

This article examines gender bias in the school, describing the role of parents and teachers in fostering the bias, often unintentionally. The effects of the inequity are discussed and solutions for combatting gender bias are presented. (SM)

Six papers address critical thinking within the physical education (PE) setting, discussing it from a variety of perspectives and providing practical suggestions for use in PE curricula. The articles identify four areas of critical thinking performance relevant to PE and examine critical thinking at the elementary, middle, and secondary school…

Provides intermediate grade teachers with strategic guidelines and suggested activities designed to develop and improve the quality of writing experiences among students in the classroom. (BB)

Discusses the importance of the inclusion of disabled students in regular classes as "full members" of their public school communities. Describes the ways in which this inclusion is achieved with a first grade student by means of an individualized education program. (BB)

Provides an overview of the issues shaping efforts to reform elementary education in the People's Republic of China. China's school organization and practices invite comparison with aspects of the U.S. system of elementary education. Enduring features of Chinese elementary education are discussed. (Author/BB)

True self-esteem for black children must mean more than teaching them to feel good about themselves. It must be based on an understanding that self-respect is earned through effort. Unrealistic self-esteem can impair the ability to improve one's life. (SLD)