The article gives a step-by-step procedure for vocational teachers to follow in determining the appropriateness of the reading level of specific instructional materials to their students' reading skills. An example is given of the procedure applied to "The Stockman's Handbook." (AJ)

This report reviews four English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) textbooks, using criteria developed for volunteer-based organizations (VBOs). It illustrates the process that VBOs need to undertake prior to ESL textbook selection. The four texts include the following: "Laubach Way to English" (J. Macero and M. Lane), which focuses on linguistic rather…

Differentiating textbooks is modifying or adapting textbooks in ways that make them easier for students to read and comprehend and then to retain what they have read. This book explains how teachers can motivate their students as they are confronted with text which is generally written in a "less-than-engaging" expository style. The strategies…

Materials, to be effective, must be adapted to the learning potential, experience, and social backgrounds of students. Since all commercially produced materials are not satisfactory, the author offers some guiding principles that should be used when making selections. (RB)

This study identified curriculum materials and educational resources currently used in preservice teacher education programs in Israel and how these materials are employed. Great diversity was found in the types of materials in use. The need for development of specially designed curriculum materials is expressed. (PP)

Presents results of an Illinois State survey of 200 high school principals (48-percent return) in which respondents indicated the extent of censorship pertaining to teaching methods and textbooks and the originators of the censorship. Indicates that many potential items for censorship have not been of concern. (DC)

Presents comments from a symposium at which scientists and science educators agreed that science education should focus more on problem solving and less on mastery of content. Also suggests ways to select textbooks that support a problem-solving approach. (DC)

The author examines reasons why, historically and currently, a great deal of controversy in Italian education focuses on the provision of textbooks. He discusses such issues as single national textbooks, participation in selection, effects on teaching methods, provision of class libraries, and the requirement that parents pay for textbooks. (SJL)

Provides a comprehensive list of bilingual centers across the country that offer aid in curriculum development, materials selection, teacher training, assessment and dissemination, and antidiscrimination guidelines for linguistic minorities. (Editor)

Reports that introductory textbooks about special education used at the college level differ in readability and that the cloze procedure can be used as an objective measure to use in selecting these textbooks. (FL)

Compares the production and selection of textbooks in the United Kingdom and North America with respect to such areas as derivation of textbook ideas, evaluation of the ideas, production, distribution, how and by whom the books are bought, and limitations on certain textbook topics. (GT)

This annotated guide to selection aids for elementary-level materials on Canada covers selection aids for basic materials, current materials, free materials, and books on native peoples. Annotations include publisher's address, price, and a short review. Organizations which might help in book selection are also described. (SJL)

Presented in this article is a set of guidelines to follow in the selection of a science textbook. Instructions on how to examine textbooks are given. Topics considered are types of experiments, appropriateness of content, definition of concepts, meaningful activities, sequence, reading level, eye appeal, and safety. (SA)

"Impressions," a K-6 reading series that is a lavishly illustrated anthology of fairy tales, poems, and classic children's literature has been the target of conservative religious groups. Other books and programs have also been actively opposed. School boards need sound policies for dealing with challenges to the curriculum and the…