Identifies and discusses four basic skills needed for good report writing: collecting and recording information; notetaking; using reference sources; and organizing notes for writing. (JMB)

A collection of brief articles offers suggestions for teaching the basics: social studies, problem solving, reading, and science. (CM)

Children learn while they travel when they take a portable study kit with them. The suggested travel tote requires children to keep a daily journal, trace the trip on a map, and collect souvenirs. Examples are offered of this multidisciplinary approach that helps children learn outside the school. (DF)

Presents instructions for making six learning kits which kindergarteners can use independently to review such fundamental skills as matching or recognizing letters, numbers, shapes, and colors, as well as to explore such topics as community helpers, the senses, nutrition, and animals. (Author/SJL)

An annotated bibliography of recommended materials parents can use at home to reinforce basic skills. Citations are grouped by age levels, preschool through the eighth grade. Publishers' addresses and prices are provided. (SJL)

The Play and Learn program uses graphics in the playground to create a learning environment where children explore basic skills. The playground encourages student participation in large and small groups or cross-age tutoring. Several different graphics are illustrated and explained. (DF)

Using robots in the classroom can motivate students to learn basic skills. Suggestions are offered for adding excitement to the class with multidisciplinary activities, games, and a song. (DF)

Asserting that problem solving is the most important mathematical skill that elementary students need to learn, the authors present teaching tips and sample problems geared to the primary and intermediate grades. (SJL)

Discusses why it is important to teach arithmetic, showing teachers how to match what they are teaching with children's real-world needs, presenting seven basics for teaching arithmetic today, and offering seven classroom strategies for implementing the instruction. The seven basics emphasize the importance of arithmetic skills and math facts as…

We should not, in the name of "back to basics," regress to the old methodologies of memorization and drill. Computational skills must be thoroughly developed, but mathematics should also be taught in a way that will enhance thinking skills and problem solving in an enjoyable atmosphere. (Author/SJL)

Examines which skills students develop through social studies and how technology can help elementary students strengthen them. Important skills include understanding and using locational and directional terms and developing research, thinking, decision-making, interpersonal, and reading skills. Technology skill-builders include telecommunications…

Offers six suggestions to help elementary teachers create cross-curricular adventures in learning that begin with science. The article includes a chart on process skills across the curriculum, a list of resources, and suggested class activities. (SM)

"Teachers Express" (formerly titled "Bright Ideas") is a regular feature carried by the "Instructor" magazine and is designed for the in-a-hurry elementary classroom teacher who likes to stash a few good ideas away before an occasion demands one. These quick tips submitted by teachers are intended to spark interest,…