Discusses the use of primary resources in the teaching of middle school social studies. Describes a lesson in which students were given a copy of the Declaration of Independence, written in everyday language, and were asked to discuss and evaluate it. Suggests another activity based on Thomas Jefferson's writings. (SG)

Six geography lessons which teach a global perspective to fifth graders are discussed. The lessons include examining maps made in countries other than the United States, brainstorming about another culture, taking an imaginary trip over a region just studied, participating in a simulation, and researching the making of a pencil. (RM)

Argues that teachers should apply the same techniques to teach expository writing in social studies textbooks as they do with teaching children's literature. Presents four activities that can be used in whole class and small group instruction. Provides examples and a 13-item bibliography of more information. (CFR)

In the Mini-Society program intermediate grade students create their own microcosmic version of an adult economy. This study showed that in addition to increasing students' economic understanding, Mini-Society also improves the students' mathematical reasoning. (RM)

Simple but innovative strategies that fourth-grade California teachers can use for building student knowledge of California geography while reinforcing map skills throughout a typical fourth-grade state studies curriculum are presented. (RM)

Presents an annotated bibliography of 23 computer software programs selected for their applicability to the fifth-grade curriculum outlined in California History Social Science Framework. Categorizes the recommended software programs by eight chronological units in the course. Includes the current price for each program and a list of sources for…

Describes a teacher-developed simulation designed to teach cultural geography to students in the middle grades. Contends that this interdisciplinary activity can be adapted to fit teacher or curriculum needs. Includes student instructions and descriptions of six pilgrimages. (CFR)

Activities that an intermediate grade teacher used to make geography relevant to her students are described. The students researched their own family heritage. To learn about another culture, they adopted a country and did library research concerning the country's economy and culture. (RM)

Maintains that there is nothing more relevant in the lives of middle school students than being caught up in the competitive spirit of a game. Describes the use of a football-type classroom game as a methodology for helping students plan for a unit test. Includes game objectives and step-by-step instructional procedures. (CFR)

Asserts that students can make sound decisions regarding educational change. Discusses the shift from adult to student-led decision making in a California middle school's student council program. Describes activities organized by the student council and the resulting growth of student responsibility. (CFR)

Contends that learning skills taught in science classes are of equal value for social studies. Discusses a two-step formula for establishing principles, hypotheses, and theories and then validating them. Presents and discusses eight skills used in science instruction that are applicable to social studies. (CFR)

Reports on a preservice teacher education project in which social studies and English student teachers worked on an interdisciplinary middle school curriculum. Outlines four project goals and five "start-up" conditions. Presents a chronological description of project highlights and three lessons learned from the endeavor. (CFR)

Contends that the typical classroom environment is one in which the teacher has full ownership of the curriculum, the rules, student assessment, and other classroom attributes. Recommends student involvement in choosing appropriate curriculum and assessment approaches. (CFR)

Describes and comments upon a Fulbright-Hays Seminar Abroad Program trip to China. Discusses economic, social, and political changes in China during recent years. Provides recommendations for instructional resources for teaching about China. (CFR)

Maintains that teachers in the intermediate grades can motivate students to read biographies in a way that develops critical thinking. Describes a composite strategy that combines high expectations, teacher guidance, and student interaction. Teaching tips include a step-by-step preparation process and a format for group activities. (MJP)