Argues that archaeology education should be included within the social studies curriculum and addresses various reasons why archaeology has been ignored within the classroom. Presents the findings from a survey that investigated preservice and experienced teachers' knowledge of archaeology. Concludes that there is a need for teacher preparation on…

Describes the process for creating a mock trial based on the fable "Francine, Kerplunk, and the Golden Nugget." Explains that during the jury deliberations the jurors utilize chart structures to assess the credibility of the witness' testimony and the attorney's arguments. Maintains that chart structures can also be adapted to classroom…

How television can be used to develop and reinforce important citizenship traits is discussed. Described are student activities dealing with acquiring and using information, assessing information, making decisions, making judgments, communicating ideas to others, cooperating with others, and promoting and protecting one's interests. (RM)

Reports on the K-6 civic education curriculum being implemented in the public schools of Brighton, Colorado. The curriculum enhances logical thinking and decision making skills through application of psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg's theories of the stages of moral reasoning. (DB)

Presents the results of a study in which four African American teachers were interviewed. Focuses on what experiences and attitudes they take into their social studies classrooms. Concentrates on the ideas of democracy and citizenship. Emphasizes six themes that were uncovered in the research. Includes references. (CMK)

Describes a series of 10 video programs and accompanying print materials that are designed to enhance citizenship education. Expresses the basic tenet that geographic learning is essential to the sound teaching and learning of history. Includes outcome goals, program content, structure, and a description of each of the 10 programs, emphasizing…

Presents a simulation in which students take the roles of legislators and lobbyists in a debate over the minimum drinking age. Explains that the activity is limited to key elements of the legislative process. Suggests that the activity will help give meaning to abstract processes by providing motivation and relevance for students. Includes…

Describes the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) Civic Education Study. Compares the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Civics Report Card with the IEA Civic Education Study. Focuses on the gaps in the NAEP that the IEA research will fill. (CMK)

Describes the Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking (RWCT) Project. Provides an illustration of the RWCT framework of evocation, realization of meaning, and reflection, focusing on how literacy activities can develop fundamental ideas about democracy. Considers the implication of "democratic pedagogy" and includes a lesson plan on democratic…

A report from Thomas B. Fordham Foundation reveals the complaints of some social studies educators regarding the teaching of American history in US classrooms. Students, they say, should study an American history that emphasizes "true heroes of the American story." Further, these educators believe that students should be freed from the alleged…

In this article, the author discusses viewpoints on civic education reforms postulated in "Where Did Social Studies Go Wrong?," a book published by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute. The book begins with a legitimate concern about the need to educate youth to care about political life; a noble mission, dating at least to the Greeks.…

The six stages of citizenship development through which a child passes from the time of birth are discussed, and the teaching methods and curriculum for citizenship education that are appropriate at the various levels are described. (RM)

The purposes of contemporary affairs education are to (1) provide for full intellectual development of students, (2) make school experiences relevant to real life, and (3) extend democratic institutions by developing an informed, curious citizenry. (Author/AV)

Suggests that the role of the curriculum director should be to seek community input at both the planning and implementation stages of the citizenship education curriculum. Information from community individuals, groups, and agencies would allow the formation of identifiable goals. (Author/KC)

Contends that early adolescents need to learn how the jury trial system works. Provides background information on the topic for teachers. Includes a two-day lesson plan on jury duty as a civic obligation, background information for students, and extension activities relating to jury trials in the appendix. (CMK)