Criticizes use of round-robin oral reading and suggests ways in which oral reading can be effective. Some uses of oral reading in the social studies classroom are during class discussion and after silent reading for comprehension, with captioned filmstrips, for vocabulary development activities, and for expressive, audience-oriented reading. (KC)

Describes an activity approach (Independence and Elaboration Day, I & E Day) which is intended to help high school social studies students become independent readers and learners by reading social studies material other than textbooks. Suggested materials include newspapers, minutes of political and legislative meetings, and magazines. (DB)

Suggests that reading be taught through the social studies and by the experience approach on the elementary school level. An activity is described in which a short story, "Ann's Special Family," provides the focus for developing vocabulary and bringing real-life experiences into focus. (DB)

Outlines a two-day lesson designed to illustrate how using a tape recorder can improve listening, reading, comprehension, and writing skills. After listening to "The Arrival of Africans to the American Colonies," students answer questions using the notes they took while listening. (KC)

Asserts that teaching report writing to students is a difficult task. Discusses four dimensions of student report writing and emphasizes the importance of visual aids to help students comprehend the material on which reports are based. Describes semantic webbing and cooperative groups to teach outlining and report writing. (CFR)

Defines the Scaffolding Reading Experience as a reading improvement technique that incorporates prereading, reading, and postreading activities. Discusses how this can be used in social studies classes and provides specific examples from an 11th-grade U.S. history class. Includes a list of optional activities and teaching suggestions. (MJP)

Asserts that using children's literature in social studies can enrich the course content and help achieve prescribed objectives. Maintains that well-planned activities based on carefully chosen books are necessary for successful implementation of this approach. Recommends 23 books in 4 subject categories: (1) cultural studies; (2) geographical…

Contends that historical fiction can generate lively discussions among students about relevant social science concepts and contemporary social problems. Discusses why literature is a preferable alternative to many history and social studies textbooks. Presents a literature-based unit for eighth-grade U.S. history. (CFR)

Provides a six-part lesson plan for use in secondary U.S. history classes. Illustrates the development of higher-order reading, writing, and thinking skills in assignments and projects dealing with the history of westward expansion. Specific skills addressed are comparison, contrast, prediction, and evaluation. Recommends cooperative learning…