Describes how a school "lending library" of portable "notebook" microcomputers has successfully augmented the computers in the school computer laboratory (used primarily for computer-assisted instruction) and has added several dimensions to student and teacher use in the classroom as well as enabling teachers and students to…

Reviews several student-tested computer software programs for math instruction: Gameco's "Word Problem Square-Off"; "MathKeys" by MECC and Houghton-Mifflin; Davidson and Associates'"The Cruncher"; and Sunburst Communications'"Exploring Mathematics with Technology: Number and Operation Sense." (HTH)

Describes five new and creative products for classroom use to help celebrate Earth Day (April 22): a craft book, curriculum activity guide, workshop series, punch out kit, and interactive book. Product descriptions include price and ordering information. (TM)

Demonstrates the need for a three-dimensional model as an aid for teaching students why eclipses do not occur every two weeks, as falsely indicated by two-dimensional models such as books, chalkboards, and computer screens. Describes procedure to construct the model. Indicates question related to seasons likely to arise from such a model and…

Introduces eight minicenters that deal with topics such as time, mystery objects, statistical tables, nature, comedy, and war. These materials are aimed for the upper elementary grades and are intended to spark interest in an area and to entice the learner into stopping for a while to browse. (MOK)

Addresses criticism leveled at classrooms that do not use basals or English textbooks by providing justification for use of children's literature and newspapers as sound instructional materials in a comprehensive reading program. (HTH)

Reviews five computer programs and compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM) products designed to improve students' reading and problem-solving skills: (1) "Reading Realities" (Teacher Support Software); (2) "Kid Rhymes" (Creative Pursuits); (3) "First-Start Biographies" (Troll Associates); (4) "My Silly CD of ABCs" (Discis Classroom Editions); and…

Reviews five compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM) products and one video series that focus on science projects: (1) "Body Park" (Virtual Entertainment); (2) "The Magic School Bus Explores the Solar System" (Microsoft); (3) "The Magic School Bus Explores the Human Body" (Microsoft); (4) "Science Curriculum Assistance Program" (Demco); and (5)…

Describes how a fourth-grade class developed a hands-on, integrated math, science, and literature unit about dogs and brought a dog into class for two weeks. The unit was so successful that the dog stayed for the year. School administration, teachers, parents, and students agreed that the impact of the dog's presence had been beneficial. (ET)

Reviews five computer programs that will give students the chance to start working cooperatively. Evaluates each program, and gives hardware requirements, cost, age range, supplemental materials available, and ordering information. (TM)

Second in a series of columns on helping children develop content area literacy. Gives children's perspectives on appropriate uses of various media and tools in the elementary school curriculum, including computers. Comments on the future use of traditional resources such as books. (ET)