This textbook is a guide for preparing teachers for social studies instruction in grades K-8. It promotes social studies as education for citizenship in a democracy. All chapters are structured to aid study and can be varied in order to suit the course requirements of instructors and the needs of students. Each chapter begins with an objective and related focusing questions that give an overview of content and serve as study guides. Practical teaching and learning strategies and activities are highlighted and supplemented by charts, checklists, illustrations, and examples of teaching plans. Questions and activities at the end of each chapter are designed to provoke discussion, application, and evaluations of ideas. The critically selected references may be used to gain additional information and extend the application of ideas presented in each chapter. Both the focusing questions and the suggested activities may be used for self-evaluation by students and for pre- and post-assessment by instructors in competency-based programs. Chapters include: (1) "Curriculum Overview and Historical Highlights"; (2) "Preparing Plans for Instruction"; (3) "Identifying and Using Instructional Media"; (4) "Developing Understanding and Thinking Skills"; (5) "Developing Creating Thinking through Expressive Experiences"; (6) "Developing Affective Elements of Learning"; (7) "Incorporating Content from Basic Disciplines"; (8) "Incorporating Instruction and Topics of Special Concern"; (9) "Incorporating Current Affairs, Issues, and Special Events"; (10) "Planning and Guiding Group Learning Activities"; (11) "Planning and Providing for Individual Differences"; (12) "Developing Globe and Map Concepts and Skills"; (13) "Using and Improving Communication Skills"; and (14) "Evaluation of Students' Learning." (EH)