SCHOOL FOR THOUGHT

Praise for a Teachers’ Union

American Educator, the magazine of the American Federation of Teachers, is always good value, but in its latest edition the AFT has outdone itself. The feature article by E. D. Hirsch, Jr. on the importance of a core curriculum is fascinating and eye-opening. “Ask the Cognitive Scientist” by Dan Willingham explains that virtually everyone can become good at math, and then shows how. “Want to Improve Children’s Writing” by Steve Graham outlines how teaching handwriting will actually improve students’ ability to focus and organize ideas in their written work. As well, there are excellent articles on teacher training and recognition schemes. Lastly, don’t miss the Notebook link.