Offers a series of recommendations for middle grades social studies reflecting a conscious commitment to three educational goals: (1) personal development; (2) communication and learning skills; and (3) on history, government, and geography; use of a variety of teaching methods; and recognition of the uniqueness of middle school students. (GEA)

An institution that is commonly taught about in middle and high schools is the U.S. Supreme Court. Many people--adults and young people alike--hold misconceptions about how it works. Interestingly, however, this lack of knowledge does not stop people from having a generally positive opinion of the Court--especially relative to the other two…

Reviews the establishment, purposes, current status, problems, and prospects of middle schools. Identifies five goals generally accepted by middle school educators. Reports that middle schools' exemplary features include such components as interdisciplinary team organization, flexible schedules, and home base/individual counseling programs. (GEA)

Argues that the greatest deficiency in U.S. education is the development of behavior that is attitude and value-driven, not information-driven. Urges social studies teachers to recognize that middle school education is a moral enterprise and adjust examples, discussion, and teaching activities accordingly. Reviews research and instructional…

The contemporary social studies curriculum remains surprisingly far from gender balanced. Women in the social studies are placed marginally--except for the large number of teachers and teacher educators who happen to be women. Teachers motivated to include women in global education or world history courses confront numerous problems, including…

Stresses the unique needs of the middle school and calls upon educators and administrators to recognize and respond effectively to them. Advocates an interdisciplinary team structure, allowing small groups of teachers to work with the same group of students. (GEA)

Focuses on the "New York State Great Irish Famine Curriculum Guide," discussing the purpose of the curriculum. Describes the big questions approach that uses current events to learn about the famine and world history. Includes a list of big questions. (CMK)

This article describes "We the People: Project Citizen Program," a curricular program for middle school students. "We the People" promotes competent and responsible participation in local and state government. Additionally, it helps young people learn how to monitor and influence public policy. Entire classes of students or…

States that adult value patterns are largely set during students middle school years. Argues that social studies teachers must adapt their instruction to the unique characteristics and needs of these students. Concludes that development of citizenship skills and socially responsible attitudes deserve a high priority in the middle school social…

Presents the reflections of a social studies teacher from New York City about the September 11, 2001, attacks and the days following it. Focuses on her personal experiences during that time period and the response of the school where she taught. (CMK)

Provides direction for developing appropriate, meaningful social studies instruction for the middle school. Identifies characteristics of early adolescents that have a direct relationship to curriculum design and the selection of appropriate social studies instruction strategies. Offers National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)…

Focuses on the problem in labeling children "at risk" because it may be detrimental to their futures. Provides examples of two middle school social studies teachers who have adapted their teaching to meet the needs of all classroom learners by getting to know each student personally. (CMK)