New publications

Commissioned by the National College for School Leadership (NCSL), this research report examines how school leaders in Britain align and adapt the principles of Every Child Matters (ECM), a government initiative promoting the welfare of people under the age of 19 and related standards agendas. The research considers whether responses to the principles of ECM vary according to the socio-economic status of a school's community. Interviewees for the research study felt that ECM, extended schools and standards agendas were closely aligned, and reported that implementing the ECM agenda was 'a relatively smooth process'. All interviewees also felt that delivering ECM goals would have a positive impact on the standards of attainment. The researchers recommended that school leaders gather further evidence to demonstrate how ECM and extended schools meet standards of attainment, and share this with the school and community in turn. (Adapted from report summary.)

The Cornerstones in Number series includes titles on fractions, place value and counting. Each series includes two books outlining teaching strategies and collaborative learning activities for ages 6-9 and 8-12. The books focus on developing understanding of fundamental concepts, along with mathematical thinking and language. Each title describes a series of manipulatives that can be constructed in the classroom and allow students to explore, investigate and demonstrate their mathematical understandings. Online resources for independent or whole class learning are available, including additional proformas and interactive activities. (Available from distributor.)

Written for students, researchers and social studies teachers, the book presents a series of discussions on civics and citizenship education. The book suggests that a gap exists between theory and practice in social studies education in the USA, and offers ways of rethinking civics research and education for the USA and globally. Chapters cover topics such as gender and civics education in the USA; community service learning as a way to promote civic engagement; concepts of democracy amongst students from different countries; and civic education after September 11 2001. The book challenges practitioners to move beyond using 'passive' tasks such as quizzes, worksheets and listening activities and engage critically with the curriculum. (Adapted from distributor's description. See also publisher's description.)