Voices from the Middle, Vol. 4, No. 2, April 1997

Table of Contents

Issue Theme: Models of Integration

• Transforming Middle Schools through Integrated Curriculum

  Paula DeHart and Perry A. Cook

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  Abstract: Presents a rationale for developing and implementing integrated curricula in the middle school. Draws connections between the middle school concept, integrated curriculum, and constructivist learning theory. Explores differences between integrated curriculum and the more traditional separate subject curriculum. Examines several models of integration currently being implemented. Offers practical suggestions for successful implementation.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy

• Poetry in Science

  Jackie Robertson

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  Abstract: Describes how a seventh-grade teacher incorporated poetry writing into her science class, helping students to learn the science material and helping the teacher to evaluate the students' knowledge.

  Keywords: Middle, Literature, Writing

• Where There's a Will, There's a Play

  Susan Carlson and Ann Messier

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  Abstract: Describes a popular yearly activity at one middle school in which a production of a Shakespearean comedy becomes the centerpiece of an interdisciplinary unit on the Elizabethan Period involving language arts, social studies, math, science, music, art, technical education, home economics, and the learning center.

  Keywords: Middle, Literature

• The Wall: Engaging Students in Real Work

  Marie Dionisio

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  Abstract: Describes a year-long project which combined the curricula of a language arts class, a library skills class, and an art class as 3 teachers and 163 sixth-grade students designed and created a 58-foot mural depicting the Dewey Decimal System. Notes that the mural adorns the school library and assists library users in locating the volumes they seek.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy

• Knowing from Different Angles: Language Arts and Science Connections

  Alan Sakai and Carl Leggo

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  Abstract: Describes how a seventh-grade teacher incorporated all the strands of language arts in a science unit on butterflies. Discusses insights learned in this journey of learning that honored the mystery of science as "knowing." Describes how teacher and students became actively engaged in a pedagogic experience that acknowledged the connections between science and creative expression.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy

• Writing in the Social Studies Classroom

  Kathy Griffin

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  Abstract: Describes a nine-week South Dakota history unit for junior high school students that incorporated writing for learning. Describes the eight writing assignments that were the key activities of this unit. Concludes that writing helps students comprehend, apply, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Writing

• Honoring the Complexities of Our Lives: An Interview with Karen Hesse

  Ellen Huntington Bryant

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  Abstract: Presents an interview with award-winning author Karen Hesse, discussing her writing for children and young adults. Discusses how ideas for particular books arose, as well as the research and writing processes that went into them. Appends reviews of nine books by Karen Hesse.

  Keywords: Middle, Literature

• Message from the Editors

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: Middle

• Clip and File Reviews

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  Abstract: Available in print issue only.

  Keywords: Middle

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