Urges history teachers to be more cognizant of the methods involved in the writing-across-the-curriculum movement. Suggests that these methods could provide students with the opportunity to learn history independently. Outlines the steps taken to implement these methods. (KO)

Presents a five-hour simulation designed for secondary social studies students that focuses on the civil war in the former Yugoslavia. Describes necessary materials, a recommended time frame, and a five-day instructional plan. Includes data sheets about individual nations, focus questions, and individual role descriptions. (CFR)

Maintains that children's ability to understand and use narrative precedes their ability to understand and use other genres. Asserts that the link between history and narrative is overlooked in discussions about children's historical understanding. Argues that children should use narrative. (CFR)

Presents a review of "Communism and the Cold War," an interactive multimedia videodisk designed for teaching about the post-World War II world. Concludes that, although the program is a first step in the use of interactive media in the classroom, it provides a vision of an exciting and dynamic social studies classroom in the future. (CFR)

Describes the significance of religion in India to illustrate the importance of religious beliefs as major determinants of human behavior throughout world history. Contends that the world history course provides many opportunities to help students learn about religions and religious beliefs. (CFR)

Profiles the career and contributions of educator and historian Lucy Maynard Salmon. Salmon's work on uniform standards for college admission became the basis of the College Entrance Examination. She developed a curriculum for elementary school history instruction that incorporated classical literature, folk tales, and biographies. (MJP)

Identifies and discusses six themes for teaching "History and Nature of Science and Technology" developed by a teacher enhancement workshop. The themes are designed to provide instructional guidelines for teachers developing courses in this area. Includes sample project descriptions, learning outcomes, and instructional activities. (MJP)

Briefly discusses the approaches and treatment given to George Washington in most K-12 classrooms. Argues that history is more than a rote memorization of facts, and describes several programs in Texas that have attempted a broader and more consistent approach. Discusses Washington's relevance for today's students. (MJP)

Explicates the fascinating origins (and conflicting versions thereof) for a number of well-known folk songs including, "Casey Jones,""John Henry,""Frankie and Johnny," and "Tom Dooley." Notes that source material on these and other songs is widely available through liner notes, folk song periodicals, and folklore journals. (MJP)

Asserts that using children's literature in social studies can enrich the course content and help achieve prescribed objectives. Maintains that well-planned activities based on carefully chosen books are necessary for successful implementation of this approach. Recommends 23 books in 4 subject categories: (1) cultural studies; (2) geographical…

Contends that students should gain three benefits from any history curriculum: knowledge, skills, and an enthusiasm for further study. Asserts that social studies textbooks leave out important, interest-building information. Describes classroom projects using census data and the origin of blues music as examples of social history activities that…

In early May 2002, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) released a study of U.S. history achievement among fourth, eight, and twelfth graders, finding that nearly 60 percent of high school senior test-takers failed to demonstrate basic knowledge of U.S. history. Although the hand-wringing has begun about what "must be done" to…

Recounts a student teacher's first experiences in the classroom and provides helpful commentary and suggestions from a more experienced teacher. Briefly discusses classroom management, learning styles, individual needs, time constraints, assessment, and instructional materials. Includes a list of activities that help promote an atmosphere of…

Argues that instruction about Native Americans or Canada Natives often has been limited to colorful tales about ancient lifestyles or a trip to a museum. Asserts that teachers should provide more accurate and useful information as they integrate native studies into the social studies curriculum. (CFR)

Contends that historical fiction can generate lively discussions among students about relevant social science concepts and contemporary social problems. Discusses why literature is a preferable alternative to many history and social studies textbooks. Presents a literature-based unit for eighth-grade U.S. history. (CFR)