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This report describes a program to enhance spelling word retention through the use of background music. The targeted population consisted of elementary students in three middle class communities located in the southwestern suburbs of Chicago. The problems for poor spelling retention were documented through data revealing the number of students needing an enhanced/alternative method of teaching spelling. Analysis of probable cause data supported the hypothesis that students are not as successful using traditional spelling methods. Review of student test scores, anecdotal records, and observation checklists revealed that students could improve their spelling scores through modifying the learning environment. A review of solution strategies documented in research literature together with an analysis of the problem setting resulted in the selection of possible interventions. Teachers employed background music in order to promote higher student achievement in spelling. Post intervention data indicated an improvement in students' spelling word retention. Spelling test scores and report card grades indicated a positive academic growth. Music enabled the students to concentrate, relax and revisualize spelling words. Contains 29 references, and 3 tables and 3 figures of data. Appendixes contain observation checklists, survey instruments, parent permission letters, and anecdotal notes. (Author/RS)

1Boy Crusoe

By Allan Eric

Also published as" A Yankee Crusoe" . A 15 year old hard working and studious farm boy finds the lure of adventure on the seas as a merchant seaman more than he can resist. This is his story. " I was born in a little town in the State of Maine, near the close of the Civil War. My boyhood life did not differ materially from that of the average farmer's son in the remote country districts of New England--except, perhaps, that I read more and thought more. Hard work on the rugged soil, two terms each year in the little yellow country schoolhouse, a day's fishing now and then filled the early years of my life full to over-flowing. " What he gets is enough excitement and adventure to overflow his wildest dreams. How he experiences disaster and uses his wits and knowledge to overcome every problem makes for a great read. - Summary by Phil Chenevert