Area studies programs, with their increasing demands for relevance and revision, have brought new, fresh, multi-faceted interpretations to what history is and what function it should perform. Area studies is a bold concept that calls for subject matter to move across previously sacred discipline lines. (RM)

Provides a model lesson from the book "Science/Technology/Society: Model Lessons for Secondary Social Studies Classes." Outlines Japan's campaign in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries to rid itself of guns and return to swords. Provides background information and student handouts. (RW)

Asserts that maps and map study are essential to understand history and develop historical perspective. Presents a learning activity using maps to illustrate the importance of geography in U.S. history. Includes four maps and recommended teaching procedures. (CFR)