Presents an annotated bibliography of ERIC/ChESS resources related to the history of the United States Congress. Materials selected include books, academic journals, theme issues, workbooks, and curriculum guides. Includes information on locating, ordering, and reproduction of these resources. Also includes information for contacting ERIC/ChESS.…

Contends that history is a valuable part of the elementary curriculum because it provides skills and concepts that connect and enhance other school subjects. Concludes that history, if well taught, enhances children's natural creativity and prepares for thoughtful, contributing citizenship. (CFR)

Examines the role of numbers and statistical data in history research and history instruction. Contends that many historians and history teachers are unwilling or unable to use numeric data effectively. Argues that statistical analysis is essential for many historical themes and topics. (CFR)

Reviews relations between the United States and Europe from the American Revolution to contemporary times. Contends that U.S. foreign policy has always been characterized by a tension between involvement and isolationism. Determines that the United States is inextricably tied to Europe and the world. (CFR)

Contends end of the Cold War and demise of communism caught most historians by surprise. Questions whether increased military spending by Unites States was the primary cause of the fall of the Soviet Union and communist nations in Europe. Argues world is still a dangerous place, and the Unites States must be diplomatically skillful and encourage…

Reviews recommendations from the National Council for the Social Studies which state that teaching about holidays can motivate students as well as teach about cultures. Reviews three videotapes designed for use in elementary schools. Includes a content summary and a discussion of strengths and concerns about each video. (CFR)

In 1988 the Education Reform Act was passed in England. Among its clauses, the one that laid the framework for a centralized, national curriculum represented the most significant change. One of the key aspects of the national curriculum concerned the way in which student achievement and progress were to be measured. Attainment was to be assessed…

This article examines the history textbooks available in 1998 for adoption in the United States at both the high school and elementary levels. New books have appeared on the scene since the last textbook adoption series. California begins its textbook considerations in August. The California adoption will rekindle national interest in the content…

The debate among scholars on the historical and contemporary significance of the Founding period of the United States still continues and important questions still need to be addressed. The extent to which current judicial decisions should be governed by the intentions of the Framers, and whether contemporary historical approaches tend to…

Discusses the U.S. Department of Education's publication "What Works: Research About Teaching and Learning," focusing on those sections that are most pertinent to the goals and methods of social studies teachers. Reviews and draws implications from its suggestions for improving education at the levels of home, classroom, and school. (AEM)

Nearly 20 years ago, the first national assessment of student achievement in U.S. history yielded disappointing results. Although policy-makers and researchers expressed great concern about the low scores, the federal government did not undertake large-scale efforts to address poor student performance, and few research dollars were dedicated to…

Reviews United States-Latin America diplomatic and trade relations from early days of the Republic to contemporary times. Contends that Monroe Doctrine was a way of eliminating European competition for economic and political control of Latin America. Argues that the end of the Cold War may bring a more equal relationship between the United States…

Maintains that holidays provide opportunities for teaching about history and cultural diversity. Presents a bibliographic essay of recommended resources for elementary teachers on this topic. Materials include reading resources, activity books, and audiovisual materials. (CFR)

This paper summarizes the suggestions offered by investigative committees of U.S. historians from the 1880s to the present concerning the importance of studying history in public schools, what should be included, and how it should be taught. An integrative approach to learning, combining history with English and geography, as suggested in reports…

Dime novels, short melodramatic paperbacks written in America from 1840 to 1910, are useful in helping secondary school students understand the slave experience in the United States. Writing a dime novel can be used as a class activity; the procedure for using dime novels in the classroom is discussed. (BJV)