Using an incremental model, 15 teens were trained as facilitators for an inquiry-based science program for children. Data from focus group interviews, surveys, and direct observations showed that teens were effective in implementing curriculum activities with children. Key elements in the model's design were workshop organization, introductory…

Uses excerpts from children's conversations to illustrate talk that occurs in three regular contexts in which struggling readers can work: weekly visits to a day care center where they read to younger children, daily partner reading, and daily inquiry project time. Suggests ways to promote talk in each context that will empower these learners. (SR)

An inquiry-based curriculum can become the vehicle for bringing students out into the community and bringing the larger world to the classroom. The article describes one Hawaiian teacher's elementary curriculum that encouraged talking, sharing, and collaboration and incorporated reading and writing for real purposes into the curriculum. (SM)