Educational Alchemy:

Making Magic Across the Curriculum

by Bracken Reed

NW Teacher

What happens when you attempt to mix educational subject areas traditionally seen as almost diametrically opposed? The Fall 2002 issue of Northwest Teacher, "A Natural Fusion: Math and Science Across the Curriculum," explores the surprisingly "natural confluence" of math and science with other areas of learning such as literature, writing, and music. By integrating a variety of disciplines, the editors say, "teachers can create learning experiences for students, of all grades, that transcend the power of any one of them taught in isolation."

The introductory article, "Science and Mathematics Through the Lens of Language," explores the use of non-textbook reading materials, authentic writing projects, hands-on inquiry activities, and teacher collaborations, to bring new life to subject areas often viewed as incompatible with these approaches.

"Living the Story Problem," profiles a Tillamook (Oregon) Junior High School teacher who combines mathematics instruction with service learning projects in which eighth-grade students help build houses for the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Other articles such as "The Mathematics of Music" and "Revealing the Many Facets of Science" describe similar methods of weaving math and science throughout the curriculum, and highlight resources available to those willing to accept the challenge.

A free subscription to Northwest Teacher is available to individuals in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Sign up by e-mail, math_and_science@nwrel.org; telephone, 503-275-9500; or go to the Web site www.nwrel.org/msec/nwteacher/index.html.

Persons outside the region or those wanting multiple copies of a single issue may purchase them. See the Document Order Form or the NWREL Products Catalog Online, www.nwrel.org/comm/catalog.