Argues the desirability of a unified theory of English studies and that no unifying theory has emerged because there are no dominant theories in the fields of composition theory and literary theory between which a union might be negotiated. Concludes that it is possible for one to be developed because of similarity of current controversies in both…

Reviews the literature in the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) on the responses of prominent English educators to the back-to-basics movement. (Author) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Summarizes and criticizes report findings. (KS)

In recent years many teachers, English departments, and school districts have taken steps towards averting censorship and strengthening the professional basis for their English language arts programs. This paper states that development of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) guidelines for selection of materials in English programs…

Discusses use of films and film-making in secondary school English classes, pointing out the value of film study in literature and drama appreciation, and stating that film study is now an established teaching method growing in popularity. (JB)

Author presents a high school English curriculum resulting from a definition of English as the study of language...from perception through thinking and feeling; 20 courses are described. (Author/SP)

News notes on current developments in English Teaching and curriculum, and items of interest relating to English teaching. (JB)

A high school teacher outlines how she successfully threw open the curriculum planning to the students in her English class. (Author/SP)

Argues for a study of semantics as the central focus of the English curriculum. (RD)

Discusses recent trends focusing on composition skills which have led to the elimination of literature study in freshman programs. Argues in favor of its reinstitution in order to promote literacy, provide experience, and develop connections between the past and present, thereby fostering intellectual growth. (DMM)

Explores possible reasons why women enter the teaching profession, particularly the teaching of English, and confronts common stereotypes of female English teachers. (JL)

Examine the problems of defining English education and of training English teachers and suggests the need for a "reflective teacher," trained to approach theory and teaching itself through problems. (JL)

Discusses several developing trends that limit the effectiveness of English teachers and departments and that must be taken into account when planning for the future of English education. (FL)