Closure is that element of the learning experience wherein the important points of the class period are reviewed and short-term goals are evaluated and related to long-term goals. The need for closure in musical rehearsals is discussed, and examples of closure are provided. (RM)

This volume highlights thought-provoking issues in visual arts, drama, and music education presented at the 1998 meeting of the American Educational Research Association. Following a message from the Special Interest Group Chair, Larry Kantner, and an editorial, articles in section 1 are: "Art Beginnings" (L. A. Kantner); "Teachers'…

This performance guide is designed for teachers to use with students before and after a performance of "Children of the Sun," by N. Scott Momaday. The guide, called a "Cuesheet," is in the form of a Director's Notebook--a scrapbook/journal of clippings, memos, lists, illustrations, notes, and other items--to show students how a…

A dedicated principal and staff have created an award-winning arts and music program in a poor rural community--only to run up against the crippling reality of budget cuts. (JM)

Interviewed 188 students about nine plays to develop an instrument for measuring audience response to plays. Then used the instrument, a category system, to examine the responses of fourth and tenth graders to two plays; found the instrument useful in describing different reactions to plays. (PD)

Provides specific suggestions to music teachers on preparing their students to view an opera broadcast on television, including use of other teachers or community personnel to provide background information. Approaches are outlined for introducing students to an opera's plot, music, design, costumes, makeup, lighting, and staging. (SJL)

Mixing education with entertainment, the Asolo Touring Theater brings its repertory of plays and student and teacher workshops on theater arts to school audiences in the southeastern states. The article describes the types of productions (participation, traditional, and famous plays) presented for three audience levels from primary through…

Argues that the reading and writing of case studies written by student teachers about their own student teaching experiences can help students in drama/theater teacher education to integrate theory and practice. Presents one such case. Describes how cases can be used in methods class; notes advantages of the case study method; and describes…

Describes a model that uses a culturally grounded approach to group social work in which the whole child is supported. Based on a developmental approach, the model uses the performing arts to help students express themselves. Looks at preplanning, group formation, and the various stages of implementation. Discusses implications. (RJM)

Investigates what explicit and implicit theories of gender and feminism drive teachers' drama practices. Juxtaposes adults' anecdotal perceptions of gender with young people from preschool through high school in three different contexts: a university drama education classroom, an after-school drama class at a children's theatre, and a youth…

Describes how performing (of music, drama and other things from elementary school through college) has helped each of the author's three children (three very different people) along their respective paths, helping them to reach their goals and feed their souls. Argues that such programs in the schools are priceless. (SR)

Discusses reading fluency, the role of fluency in reading, and how fluency works. Suggests students' fluency and reading comprehension can be boosted by combining the technique of repeated reading and Readers Theatre--the combination is an effective and viable means of motivating children to read a text. (RS)

Recognizes the importance of performance-based assessment in theater education because so many of the skills and concepts that are taught cannot be measured in a traditional paper and pencil test. Suggests the basic goal of performance-based assessment is to create an environment where students can show higher-order thinking skills. Gives a brief…

In most schools, the term "arts" represents visual arts (art appreciation, painting, clay, etc.), performing arts (including music, dance, and theater), creative writing, and media arts (i.e., photography, digital video, and traditional filmmaking). "Theater" and "drama" are often used interchangeably, but "theater" comprises all of the technical…

This collection contains eight children's plays in English, Spanish, and bilingual formats. Intended participants and audiences range from preschool children to young adults; most scripts encourage audience participation. Most authors are Americans of Latin American descent or birth, and characters in the plays come from Mexican, Puerto Rican, and…