A review of research on phonics, concluding that phonics instruction should be minimal. (DD)

Describes a technique for using book reports as a way to encourage self-expression by students. (DD)

Considers how commercialization has brought popular culture texts and products into children's book publishing, possibly compromising the potential for books that reflectively engage children. Hopes to inform readers of current influences on children's book publishing and to raise questions for discussion and debate among those who are interested…

Discusses how children's everyday literacies can be used in schools to connect popular culture with the language arts curriculum. Defines what the authors mean by the term popular culture, being careful to distinguish it from definitions ascribed to mass media. Shares some practical, classroom-tried ideas for integrating elementary students'…

Considers how Jacqueline Woodson has become acclaimed as an outstanding author of children's literature for youths from elementary through high school, even though she began her writing career as an author of short stories for adults. Discusses four of her books. (SG)

Discusses how teachers make important choices in discussion groups as they support children's dialogue about social inequities. Notes that the kind of safety that developed did not mean that the talk was always pleasant and free of tension, but members could expect a balancing of support for responses with a questioning approach. (SG)

Attempts to strengthen the connection between theory and practice in the inquiry discussion. Presents three curricular perspectives prevalent today and situates inquiry curriculum among these perspectives. Addresses several critiques of inquiry curriculum. Provides scenarios and identifies the beliefs underlying these opposing perspectives in an…

Considers a reading assessment procedure that offers teachers a way of using miscue analysis in the course of a busy classroom day. Presents "Over the Shoulder Miscue Analysis" as a foundation for reflection, the opportunity to revisit and make meaning of a literacy event. Explores how Over the Shoulder has helped teachers as researchers…

Reviews professional references and instructional materials that focus on language arts instruction. (MM)

Focuses on the depth of learning that happens when classroom teachers employ text sets for thematic teaching. Investigates how beginning a text set with a nonfiction and a fiction pair might offer a strong contrast that invites readers to read critically and consider alternate perspectives on a given subject. (SG)

Children's rhymes are one way of introducing children to the world of print and reading instruction. (DD)

Encounters with written language through reading can be exciting if they serve a function within the child's own framework of interest. (DD)

Reviews recent ERIC resources for creating integrated learning environments. (DD)

Suggests seven classroom activities that might be useful in teaching word blends or portmanteau words. (DD)