If educators are to fulfill their obligations to their students, their profession, and society as a whole, they simply cannot avoid taking constructive steps to improve instruction in reading and writing. (Author)

Given that, in the last quarter of the twentieth century, most people aren't reading very much, but are watching a great deal of television, schools must begin to teach television viewing skills to every student. Activities of the Milford (Ohio) school system suggest ways that television education goals might be met. (Author/MJB)

Considers some dangers associated with the back to basics movement currently sweeping the country. Emphasizes the need to teach all basic subjects such as science, foreign languages and the arts. As well it is important to avoid back to basics within basic subjects since this policy would avoid the broader aspects of each subject. (RK)

This second part of an interview presents David Holbrook's views on British schools and the back-to-basics movement in England. (DD)

Compares educational problems in England with those in America, highlighting the recent "Black Paper" furor in England. (Author)

The author redefines basic numeracy as the ability to use a four-function calculator sensibly. He then defines "sensibly" and considers the place of algorithms in the scheme of mathematical calculations. (MN)

Although the movement toward minimal competency testing has gained enormous momentum, a number of people are pointing out hazards and difficulties in implementing such tests. (Author/IRT)

Promotes the use of basic skills testing in the certification of new teachers and the recertification of veteran teachers. Presents the belief that better teaching will result from mandated teacher testing. (MD)

Reviews author E. D. Hirsch's new book, "Cultural Literacy." (MD)

To improve basic skills in a New Jersey school district, Outcome-Based Education was introduced. Six years later, students' basic skills scores have risen above the national norms. (MD)

Two prominent leaders in education, Charles Suhor and Jane Stallings, are interviewed concerning the present status and significant effects of the basic skills movement, the effect the National Commission on Excellence in Education report will have on basic skills education, and the number one priority for education in the future. (DCS)

The article discusses procedures for development and implementation of a curriculum to shape functional skills for severely multiply or severely profoundly disabled preschoolers. Five response levels of increasing complexity are suggested. Teachers urged to be sensitive to child-determined instructional occasions in early assessment and…

The author argues that social studies education provides students the skills needed to deal with the economic, political, and social world. (Author/RM)

Distinguishes self-directed learning from individualized instruction and discusses the role of the teacher in promoting self-directed learning. (FL)

The "back to basics" movement in Australian elementary and secondary schools is criticized because it would take the culturally impoverished nineteenth-century elementary school as a model. It is suggested that despite some structural limitations, the establishment of state secondary schools has led to some widening of cultural…