Notebook 

How Words Cast Their Spell
Spelling Is an Integral Part of Learning the Language, Not a Matter of Memorization
By R. Malatesha Joshi, Rebecca Treiman, Suzanne Carreker, and Louisa C. Moats
(This article is available in PDF format only)

To those who haven't had the benefit of language-based spelling instruction, English spelling seems terribly confusing—so many sounds with multiple spellings (e.g., eight and ate) and so many spellings with multiple sounds (e.g., the ch in church and chorus). It's no wonder that spelling instruction often focuses on memorization, with flashcards and weekly quizzes. But researchers have found that there is a better way. By emphasizing the sound-letter correspondences and then adding in some history of the language, spelling instruction becomes more effective—and improves students' reading and writing too.

The Real Magic of Spelling: Improving Reading and Writing

Spelling Programs that Provide Well-Sequenced Instruction

Ask the Cognitive Scientist
What Will Improve a Student's Memory?
By Daniel T. Willingham
(This article is available in PDF format only)

Since the primary focus of school is learning new knowledge and skills, wouldn't it make sense for students to know how memory works? With this column and related demonstration lessons, teachers can show their students how to commit things to memory, avoid forgetting, and judge when they've studied enough.

Classroom Demonstrations of the Three Principles of Memory

The Burden and Beauty of the Humanities
By Wilfred M. McClay
(This article is available in PDF format only)

Why do we need the humanities? To understand ourselves and the world around us in human terms. And what do the humanities need from us? The courage to defend their value.

Web Extra: To read a longer version of this article, click here.

Why Teach Labor History?
By James Green
(This article is available in PDF format only)

Union members have played a significant role in democratizing America and humanizing the workplace. From pushing for mine safety laws and workers' compensation to helping raise the minimum wage, the labor movement has been—and continues to be—a positive force for change. The Web sites highlighted here will help your students learn of labor's accomplishments.

One Part Whimsy, Two Parts Science
A Fantastical Journey through the Human Body
By David Macaulay

In The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body, David Macaulay uses humorous, yet informative, illustrations to show the inner-workings of the human body. Although it won't replace the textbook, it will help biology teachers liven up anatomy lessons.