If American young learners are to become effective participants in a democratic society, then social studies must be an essential part of the curriculum in each of the elementary years. The purpose of elementary school social studies is to enable students to understand, participate in, and make informed decisions about their world. Social studies…

The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), in conjunction with the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, the nation's leading advocacy organization focused on infusing 21st century skills into education, is committed to bringing an expanded focus to social studies teachers. The two organizations have collaborated on some exciting…

Teacher preparation begins with students who explore challenging topics and issues under the guidance of knowledgeable and skillful teachers. This preparation continues, as pre-service candidates examine theories and research data that support and promote teacher freedom to deal with issues of significance on which there is a range of…

Previous studies have focused on how well students are learning economics, how teachers are trained, and other outcomes associated with improved understanding of economics. However, almost nothing is reported in the research literature on economics teachers' views of the curriculum, how they teach their subject, their views on public issues, and…

Describes the organization's break with the National Education Association and development of an organizational structure and a code of professional ethics. Discusses the identity crisis and tension between social studies education and the social science disciplines that continue to be issues within the organization. (CFR)

Discusses the Maryland School Performance Assessment (MSPAP), addressing the benefits of MSPAP and the teachers' call for assistance. Focuses on the use of the Internet to (1) disseminate information about assessment to parents and students and (2) offer professional development for teachers on instructional and assessment strategies. (CMK)

Discusses a sixth grade teacher's experience in turning a classroom project into a book. Offers advice for teachers on becoming writers. Explores obstacles, benefits, and suggestions on writing, editing, and publishing work. Describes a class project that resulted in the cleanup of a toxic waste site and the publication of "The Kid's Guide to…

Presents an interview with John Haefner, president of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) in 1953. Haefner reflects on social studies education and the constant challenges facing NCSS. Concludes that laboratory schools were important sources of educational change and improvement. (CFR)

State social studies supervisors and State Economic Education Council representatives in twenty-three states were interviewed to determine the state of economic education in United States public schools. Findings indicate professional growth, content emphasis, and classroom practices. (AM)

Outlines a distance education Certificate in Education program for teachers in the Commonwealth Caribbean, administered by the University of the West Indies in association with the University of London. Highlights the learning modules of the Teaching of Social Studies option. Examines student evaluation and explores problems that arise in…

Presents the text of the 1985 Presidential NCSS Address. Reviews trends and influences in the social studies curriculum and argues that members of NCSS must take charge of the curriculum and delineate a clear core of goals to provide direction for the future.(JDH)

Provides the full text of the resolutions and standing committees' reports at the November, 1985 meeting of the National Council for the Social Studies. (JDH)

Describes how the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) grew into a major professional organization during the years 1947-1968. Discusses the NCSS response to domestic and social issues such as civil rights, the Cold War, and educational reform following Sputnik. (CFR)

The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) annual meeting provides a unique opportunity for intellectual stimulation and professional growth. Several NCSS members recall their most memorable annual meeting. Every decade since the 1930s is covered. (RM)

Poses ethical questions related to social studies education and professional values in five case studies illustrating the six principles of the National Council for Social Studies (NCSS) Code of Ethics. Raises questions about the NCSS's involvement in overseeing professional ethics and encourages discussion about ethical principles. (LS)