New publications

Based on teacher distribution and qualification data from Ohio, Illinois and Wisconsin, this report highlights the variance in teaching quality across high and low poverty/minority schools. Researchers suggest reasons for the patterns identified, summarise how teaching quality affects student achievement, and propose strategies for a fairer distribution of effective teachers. Graphs and findings reveal that rather than allocating highly effective teachers to help minority and impoverished students ‘catch up’, the education system assigns, on average, less educated, less experienced and less pedagogically able teachers. The report shows that teachers of impoverished and minority students are less likely to hold a subject major or minor than those who teach in more affluent schools. For example, 50% of secondary maths teachers in high poverty/high minority schools lack a maths-related major or minor. Recommendations include an overhaul of teacher and principal recruitment practices, changes to funding, the provision of paid sabbaticals and a rethinking of how teacher quality is measured. (Adapted from report.)

The authors outline an integrated approach to teaching reading and writing, with a focus on helping ESL students become stronger writers. The book explores ways teachers can tailor the classroom environment and use writing workshops and small-group instruction to improve achievement among ESL students. Five sections cover various stages of language proficiency across K–8 education. More than 60 classroom-tested activities are suggested to help students make connections and inferences, ask questions, prioritise information, monitor their own comprehension and self-correct work. Lists of suggested mentor texts and mentor authors to assist teachers with planning and instruction are also provided. (Adapted from publisher’s description. Available from Curriculum Corporation.)

The report explores how students' perceptions of their paid part-time employment and school-based apprenticeships have influenced their career and further education decisions. Participating schools were provided with VET classroom resources, which were implemented with varying degrees of success, depending on teaching capabilities, the interest/readiness of students, and the status of work experience and vocational education programs within the school. The students, with effective teacher direction, were able to analyse their work experiences and developed a greater understanding of conditions, roles, team work and work performance. The report finds that the students used their work experiences to critically evaluate post-school options, which helped them determine their career and further study preferences. (Adapted from executive summary.)

Written by nutritionist Rosemary Stanton and exercise scientist Andrew Hills, the book provides an overview of facts about body fat and associated health risks. The book details normal levels of body fat for children during the growing years, and suggests science-based strategies for families with overweight children. 'Nutritious yet delicious' eating options are suggested, along with activities which are designed to be both fitness enhancing and fun.(Adapted from publisher's description.)