Explores the debate over the value of literature in the English curriculum. (HOD)

Observes that George Henry, with his speculations about the centrality of language for English education, has provided an insight into more effective English education preservice programs. (HOD)

Applauds the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) for maintaining its high principles in its attempt to develop national standards in English for the federal government. Suggests that NCTE acted wisely when it refused to be enticed by lucrative government contracts to bend its pedagogical principles. (TB)

Examines responses of graduate students preparing to teach English to an invitation to relate something that was remarkable about their new classroom experiences. Considers the power of narrative for expressing emotions and intellectual growth. (HB)

Provides a report of research conducted as the authors read and analyzed preservice English teachers' writing. Studies the personal teaching metaphors composed by students upon the request of the instructors. Finds that the creation of personal teaching metaphors can illuminate preservice teachers' beliefs. (HB)

Studies the currently influential theories about the nature and development of the child. Questions whether these theories usefully inform educational work with specific children in particular locations. Considers how these theories affect writing instruction for children and criticizes their effects on real children. (HB)

Reflects on the statement, "Literature should be removed from the center of the English curriculum and become part of the study of language that should be at the center." Tries to "clear the way" for students to write passionately about their lives and feelings and encourages students to explore their thinking through reading…

A neglected aspect of literary history in high schools is the monumental one--the providing of models or ideals. (JH)

Muses on the attempts that have been made to establish an august list of literary works to be taught in the secondary school and offers a personal opinion of book titles, ninth through twelfth grade, that are defensible on literary quality and are educationally worthwhile. (HOD)

Reviews the accuracy of past predictions concerning the future of English education, then makes five new ones. (JL)

Expresses concerns over trends affecting the literature curriculum in English classrooms. Focuses on the problems of censorship, the accessibility of books, and the increased costs of enrichment materials. (RL)

Presents data from a survey of the course offerings of 265 midwestern high schools that tend to support the belief that language arts minicourse programs still exist in spite of a trend toward a more traditional curriculum. Listed first in the data is the finding that every high school offered at least one minicourse in composition. (AEA)