Discusses what is meant by the term curriculum balance, how such balance should be determined, and what its benefits are. (JMB)

Discusses the pros and cons of national competency testing. (JMB)

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)

These articles are presented as an aide in teaching basic subjects. This issue examines reading diagnosis, food preservation, prime numbers, electromagnets, acting out in language arts, self-directed spelling activities, and resources for environmental education. (Editor/RK)

Presents two articles designed to help teach the basic subjects--some new ways for teaching math drill and a painless approach to vocabulary building. (Editor/RK)

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)

Presents ideas for using food as concrete objects to teach mathematics and offers suggestions for teaching about political cartoons. (JMB)

Presents ideas and activities for teaching basic skills including vocabulary building, learning science from the microclimates, using tape recorders to teach reading, and using monsters to teach metrics. (JMB)

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)