Asserts that a primary goal of social studies is to prepare students to make informed decisions on public and political issues. Maintains that the most effective approach to teaching critical thinking is through infusion--teaching thinking skills in the context of subject matter. (CFR)

Argues that cooperative learning is useful in elementary social studies instruction. Identifies positive interdependence, student interaction, individual accountability for mastering material, and appropriate interpersonal and small group skills as essential elements of cooperative learning. Suggests that cooperative learning can help teach social…

Discusses plans for a national testing program and its possible effects on social studies. Expresses concern that the proposed plans avoid the issues of how and by whom curricular content is to be developed and how diversity will be accommodated. Includes discussion of the purposes, fairness, and problems inherent in the American Achievement…

Reports on a study of the background and training of 178 economics teachers in 114 high schools in western New York State. Contends that teachers with no background have greater difficulty teaching economic topics than teachers trained in economics. (CFR)

Asserts that the restoration of the People's Republic of China's membership in the United Nations in 1971 signified China' return to the international community. Maintains that significant attention has been devoted to teaching about the United Nations. (CFR)

Analyzes social and economic challenges facing the Caribbean region. Examines colonialism's legacy, factors contributing to emigration, and social stratification. Emphasizes difficulties in self-determination created historically by externally introduced ideas, continuing U.S. hegemony, and cultural, racial, and ethnic differences. Provides maps…

Contends that the integration of history and geography has long been recommended by historians and social scientists. Discusses the five themes of geography and how they can be integrated into an effective lesson plan. Provides an annotated list of resources on this topic. (CFR)

Reports on an interview with a former East German English teacher. Describes her view that the ideologically determined curriculum, particularly in social studies education, was a major barrier to effective education. Discusses her contention that a loss of moral and ethical values among youth was a result of reunification and the demise of the…

Describes criteria for authentic intellectual achievement in social studies, as well as the assessment and instruction tasks necessary to achieve these criteria. Emphasizes the importance of the construction of knowledge, disciplined inquiry, and the development of qualities of reasoning that have value outside school. (MJP)

Presents a lesson that will help students discover the innovative technologies of the Allegheny Portage Railroad that can be used when teaching about early 19th-century expansion and industrialization. Expounds that students' skills in geography and history will be strengthened through map reading, examination of pictures, and analysis of…

Considers ways to make the complex subjects of conflict and conflict resolution meaningful and manageable in the classroom. Recommends rigorous planning, clear definitions, and classifications of the different kinds of conflict. Includes a problem-solving lesson, list of lesson ideas, and teaching approaches. (MJP)

Criticizes the National Commission on Social Studies in the Schools' report, "Charting a Course: Social Studies for the 21st Century," for its poor use of available social studies curriculum research and lack of citations of research sources. Argues that report views teachers as passive recipients of curriculum and fails to address…

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)

Discusses the need for teaching about global interdependence. Points out that nearly every dimension of life in the United States shows proliferating connections to other nations. Describes techniques for finding global links and appreciating their importance. Notes that information emanating from the school will increase general knowledge…

Argues that the role of economic reasoning can provide a powerful tool for understanding U.S. history. Lists six principles that articulate important aspects of economic reasoning that can be used in teaching U.S. history. Uses the Homestead Act of 1862 to illustrate how these principles can be used in the classroom. (CFR)