Research in the Teaching of English, Vol. 34, No. 3, February 2000

Table of Contents

• EDITORS' INTRODUCTION: Questions of Cultures

  Peter Smagorinsky and Michael W. Smith

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  Abstract: Researchers have begun to focus on the role of culture in teaching and learning, drawing on other disciplines to reconsider literacy activities as socially purposeful and culturally grounded. The interest raises two questions: what aspects of culture are more important than others? And what impact does the researcher's perspective on culture have on the focus and contact of the study? The articles in this issue suggest a range of answers that scholars or offering to these questions.

  Keywords: College

• On Reframing Children's Words: The Perils, Promises, and Pleasures of Writing Children

  Anne Haas Dyson

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  Abstract: Considers the importance of materials from popular culture in children's literate activities. Emphasizes the dynamic ways in which children adapt symbols from popular culture for their own academic and social purposes. Argues for the need to view popular culture more respectfully.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Literacy, Research

• Critical Inquiries into Language in an Urban Classroom

  Bob Fecho

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  Abstract: Describes a teacher-research study using interpretive methods to address the question how learning about language connects secondary students to their world. Profiles three student inquirers, finding the students deepened their awareness of the role language plays in their lives.

  Keywords: Secondary, Language, Research

• Creating Community and Coherence in High School Literature Curricula

  Arthur N. Applebee, Robert Burroughs, Anita S. Stevens

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  Abstract: Studies how experienced teachers of literature created a sense of continuity and coherence in a curriculum over relatively long periods of time. Finds that although the classrooms created a stable set of domain conventions, similarity in broad topics and goals within the curriculum masked great diversity at the level of classroom practice.

  Keywords: Secondary, Literature, Pedagogy, Research

• Writing in Knowledge-Building Communities

  Mari Haneda, Gordon Wells

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  Abstract: Draws on the work of three students to argue for the value of treating writing as a tool for knowledge building. Claims when writing is used in this way, (1) students extend their repertoire of writing strategies, and (2) the effort students put into creating functionally effective texts plays a role in their learning.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, College, Research, Writing

• Announcing the Alan C. Purves Award Winner (Volume 33)

  Russel Durst, Todd DeStigter, Steve Griffin, Elizabeth Kahn, Ellen McIntyre

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: College, Research

• GUEST REVIEWERS

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  Abstract: Available in print version only.

  Keywords: College, Research

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