A total of 21 full-day structured classroom observations were conducted in six classes of the Austin Independent School District Bilingual Preschool Project (Texas) having a high incidence of limited-English-proficient (LEP) students. Each class consisted of 15 LEP students and 3 English-proficient students. It was anticipated that…

The author suggests that the traditional, classroom form of school organization is ineffective for learning and that it wastes valuable school resources. (Author/DN)

Explains the merits of "brain-compatible" learning, especially Proster Theory. Describes a pilot program at a New Jersey elementary school that transformed conventional, graded classrooms into "multi-teacher interactive learning units" that promote thinking in terms of programs and patterns. Summarizes pedagogical changes and…

Presents ideas for creating a purposeful classroom environment that will help students become strategic readers. Suggestions include using the conference table to learn about students as readers, organizing books to help children make wise choices, and creating a meeting area that invites discussion. (SM)

Suggestions are presented to increase the special education teacher's organizational efficiency, focusing on instructional planning and use of time and space as they relate to classroom organization. (JDD)

Describes important components of parent education classes including: (1) class composition; (2) inherent vulnerability of participants; (3) a fun and encouraging atmosphere; (4) teachers who ask and do not tell; (5) teachers who accept mistakes; (6) a parent-friendly class that includes food, movement, and modeling; and (7) focus on parenthood as…

This action research project implemented and evaluated a program for improving classroom seating arrangements in order to increase on-task behavior among students in second and third grade. The problem of off-task behavior was documented by means of behavior checklists and anecdotal records. Analysis of probable cause data revealed that students'…

In light of the importance of a teacher's managerial ability and the use of small and large group instruction to increase direct instruction time, teachers should apply specific managerial skills in their reading classes to ensure student learning. Successful teachers get to know their students, set instructional goals, and make sure students know…

This document is a guide for consultants observing teacher behavior, its effects on students, and learning environment conditions in a PLAN (Program for Learning in Accordance with Needs) classroom. (Appended are a series of 27 questions and answers which describe PLAN, an individualized, computer-assisted instructional system initially operating…

Describes several ways to create a classroom environment conducive to reading, including designing reading bulletin boards, creating reading and writing centers, and establishing "discovery spots" to encourage young readers. (MM)

The influence on learning of classroom climate in Indian schools is discussed, with attention directed toward such factors as teacher-student relationships, discussion methods, teaching style, peer relationships, and general psychological atmosphere. (LBH)

In multigrade instruction, children of at least a 2-year grade span and diverse ability levels are grouped in a single classroom and share experiences involving intellectual, academic, and social skills. "The Multigrade Classroom" is a seven-book series that provides an overview of current research on multigrade instruction, identifies…

An approach to teaching based on the English infant school where "youngsters aged from five to 10 work in specially adapted, child sized environments, doing whatever they want. Part of a longer special report which is available from: Grade Teacher Reprints, 23 Leroy Ave., Darien, Conn. 06820 (No. 91291, 75J) (Author/AP)

Friendship choices were found to be distributed more evenly in classrooms where greater student interaction is permitted. (JD)

Factors in the physical arrangement of special education classrooms that may lead to greater instructional control and structure include teacher proximity and view, separation of space, and reduction of extraneous stimuli. The issue of making classrooms more relaxed and home-like versus structuring them like regular classes to prepare students for…