Examines the conceptions of nature of science (NOS) possessed by a group of gifted seventh-grade students from Taiwan. Concludes that there were no significant changes in students' views of NOS after instruction, possibly due to time limitations and a ceiling effect. (Author/MM)

Describes work on the issue of self- and peer-assessment by twelve science teachers in six schools in London and draws on the teachers' written accounts. Describes the rationale and the practices developed as well as whether or not the new classroom methods described are practicable. (Author/MM)

Presents a theoretical classification of relationships between the philosophy of science and didactics of science, based on the metadiscursive nature which philosophy and didactics share. Describes five different relationships between the two disciplines: material, instrumental, explanatory, rhetorical, and metatheoretical. (Author/MM)

Aims to provide insight into some of the factors that shape science news in the hope of facilitating judicious use of this resource in educational and other contexts. Examines the effects of journalism on public perception of science. (MM)

Argues that by celebrating the number pi with special mathematical activities we may be teaching the fundamental concept of the place-value structure of our decimal place system. Includes several examples to illustrate the argument. (MM)

Analyzes the role of science curriculum materials in educational reform concluding that materials can and should play a vital role. Concludes also that the use of new curriculum materials must be accompanied by transformative professional development in a supportive school and community environment. (Author/MM)

Boys need special attention when it comes to reading. Literacy statistics show that boys are not getting what they need to be successful readers. Guys Read is a literacy program focused on the needs of boys. It offers parents, educators, and librarians concrete ways to engage boys in reading (e.g., encouraging them to read the books they want).…

Asthma has grown to epidemic proportions among school-age children, and nearly 10 million U.S. adults suffer from it. This paper describes asthma and its triggers and explains how to take measures to manage asthma symptoms within the school (e.g., dusting regularly and keeping medications available). A sidebar presents tips on controlling asthma…

Describes exemplary travel, tourism, and hospitality programs at several secondary and postsecondary schools. Includes a description of a program specifically for special needs students. (JOW)

In the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust, clandestine schooling became a form of resistance to Nazi attempts to eradicate Jewish culture. A variety of community groups provided schooling that attempted to give a sense of normalcy as well as hope. (Contains 144 endnotes.) (SK)

Describes an assignment designed to assist senior English students in rediscovering their genuine selves. Invites students to create an imaginative piece that involves experimentation and intellectual risk. Encourages students to mix genres, devise new structures, collaborate, and incorporate other art forms in which they have some expertise.…

Considers Virginia Hamilton's "Plain City" and Walter Dean Myers'"Somewhere in the Darkness." Compares the similarities and differences in the authors and the books and considers many aspects of "coming of age." Notes that when the fathers in these stories reappear, the simple fact of their presence is a catalyst for the protagonist's self…

Describes how the author helps his students understand the power of books and the impossibility of predicting what book will profoundly affect a person, by asking two questions: "What book made the biggest difference in your life?" and "What was that difference?" Describes the profound impact on the author's life of John…

Discusses how the technology of alphabetic writing is the first technology to "blame" for students' spelling problems. Considers the use of computers and spell checkers in dealing with spelling issues. Lists 10 Web sites that address spelling reform; research on spelling; and spelling lists, tests, tips, and games. (SG)

Shares stories of the author's family's literacy projects in schools, at home, and on the street to explore how critical literacy can become part of everyday lives and dreams for a better future. Articulates the seriousness of these projects, how these projects spring from our questions and interests, and how they can inform educators about…