Children's literature can broaden and enhance readers' views of themselves and others. When children's literature from abroad as well as from the United States is incorporated into the literacy practices of a first grade class, the potential exists to widen the children's perspectives of the world and build insights about others. Additionally…

Describes a longitudinal study undertaken by the Everyday Mathematics (EM) program and presents achievement-test data results. Compares the performances of EM students to Japanese, Chinese, and traditionally taught U.S. children. (ASK)

Presents an account of the project approach used by American first graders to study Japan. (BB)

Describes the typical experiences of German children on their first day of school, as well as primary education in Germany in general. Notes that, in the Grundschule (state primary schools), unlike most American public schools, children are exposed to religious instruction (Catholic and Protestant) and foreign languages. Other similarities and…