This article describes the Frank Reade dime novels, published in 1882, that are now recognized as the beginnings of the modern science fiction novel in the United States. They illustrate the hope that Americans of the time held for the future that newly invented technology could offer. Although the Frank Reade stories highlighted the promise of…

In this article, the author provides an overview of teaching and learning activities that combine both historical and civics instruction with the study of technology, in line with NCSS thematic strand "Science, Technology, and Society." Specifically, these integrative teaching activities focus on Lowell Mill and Ralph Waldo Emerson, within the…

Describes a secondary level lesson based on the Johnstown Flood in 1889. Includes maps, photographs, and readings designed as student resources. (CFR)

Discusses science and social studies integration to achieve technological literacy. Outlines elements that contribute to a successfully integrated social studies curriculum and its accompanying instruction. Four elements are presented: (1) clearly stated outcomes, (2) organizational strategy, (3) support systems, and (4) instructional strategies.…

Highlights some current resources for teaching science-related social issues in elementary and secondary classrooms from the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database. Issues covered are varied and include population growth, environmental concerns, bioethical questions, hunger and food resources, water resources, nuclear energy, and…

Explores reasons for paying attention to content about science/technology/society (STS) in the social studies curriculum. Examines strategies for incorporating STS in the social studies. Expresses some cautions about interdisciplinary approaches to teaching STS. (DB)

Praises recent efforts to integrate study of science and technology with the broader society, including the science/technology/society movement and Project 2061. Warns of the dangers of splitting the social sciences and natural sciences, and of the limitations represented by the recent focus on "cultural literacy." Advocates the…

Describes an interactive problem-solving videodisc program designed for the middle schools. Explains the interdisciplinary nature of the program that includes information from astronomy, geology, history, and meteorology. Contends that the product is an excellent example of well-designed educational software. (CFR)

Presents guidelines from the National Council for the Social Studies' Science and Society Committee, focusing on topics with interrelationships among science, technology, and the social context in which they occur. Covers eight areas: (1) choosing topics; (2) content knowledge; (3) values; (4) thinking processes; (5) civic action; (6)…

Maintains that the science/technology/society movement (STS) is a megatrend in science education. Explains that STS takes a holistic, problem-solving approach toward teaching science, one that is student oriented and much more accessible than traditional approaches. Lists tables that contrast STS and traditional classes. (DB)

Discusses studies done on science/technology/society (STS) education and lessons that may be drawn for teachers. Maintains that issue investigation and action-based units focusing on locally relevant and student-relevant issues are clearly supported and encouraged by STS research. (DB)

Describes a series of teaching activities to be used in conjunction with a reproduction of Joseph Glidden's patent for barbed wire fencing. These include document analysis, creative interpretation, and personal experience. Presents a brief history of the social and economic effects of the introduction of barbed wire to the West. (MJP)

Presents excerpts from "Expectations of Excellence: Curriculum Standards for Social Studies." Defines and explains 10 thematic strands that form the basis for the standards. Includes integrated content from history, geography, other social sciences, and the humanities. (CFR)

Observes the ever-changing relationship between media technology and political coverage and illustrates this through the use of political cartoons. Briefly reviews political reporting from the days of the early republic and hand-printed newspapers to the current era of the Internet. Includes historic cartoons and suggested activities. (MJP)

Briefly describes activities and questions designed to integrate the study of electricity into any of the specific social studies disciplines. Meeting the performance expectations of the National Standards, the activities are connected to archaeology, anthropology, geography, history, economics, political science, law, religion, philosophy,…