Examines possible reasons for the lack of issues-oriented instruction in social studies classrooms. Provides curriculum suggestions to remedy this, including exploring debatable issues that can be researched and are interesting. Includes 12 instructional strategies designed to maintain student interest and smooth over rough spots. (MJP)

Reprints two statements of the Academic Freedom Committee of the National Council for the Social Students on academic freedom and professional standards in social studies education. Stresses the rights and responsibilities of teachers, students, and administrators to protect the freedom to teach and learn in a democratic spirit of inquiry. (CH)

This article presents statistics on school health education, looking at selected federal support and related research and focusing on the School Health Policies and Programs Study, which used questionnaires to provide data on the status of health education at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. (SM)

Proposes ways in which the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's documentary series, "The Valour and the Horror," can be used to develop students' critical thinking skills. Asserts that the issues of historical accuracy provide excellent opportunities to discuss historiography, the role of the media in society, and human rights during…

Introduces a special issue topic: "Taking Stands in American History." Maintains that every generation has included citizens who have taken stands fusing the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Previews topics and contents of articles that are included in this issue. (CFR)

This study found that Missouri special education teachers (n=198) felt that their undergraduate courses inadequately prepared them for working with children from families without two biological parents in the same household, though this training was felt to be important. The majority of subjects had received in-service training related to divorce,…

Contends that individuals and organizations advocating the peaceful resolutions of disputes have been important in shaping U.S. history. Asserts that teachers discussing diplomatic history should focus on the way domestic political forces shaped that history. Provides a chronological overview of the impact of the peace movement on U.S diplomatic…

Investigates Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) education in public schools, arguing that preoccupation with sex education masks several problems associated with AIDS education. Contends that moral-political educational issues are renewed by the AIDS problem. Identifies liberal and conservative positions on AIDS education, showing their…

Illustrates how the sophistication of students' discussion on controversial issues can be increased by explicit attention to (1) the defensibility of more than one position, and (2) the relationship between protagonist's interests and the positions adopted. Presents a case study of a teacher using this scheme as he reflects on and modifies his…

Explores the strengths and weaknesses of the five main philosophical positions currently found in school sex education. Argues that valid sex education promotes rational sexual autonomy, requires pupils to consider the needs and wishes of others, and occurs within a moral framework. Suggests teachers adopt a supportive but neutral position. (MJP)

A philosophy of education course focused on concepts of democratic education was taught to primary and secondary school teachers working in a private bilingual school in San Salvador (El Salvador). The teachers' school was an "International School" serving children of the wealthy and the educated who lived nearby. The course was designed…

This paper proposes a five-step model intended to meet the needs of gifted students in the context of the mixed ability reality that most teachers in regular classrooms encounter. The model consists of five steps each of which has several components. The steps and components are: (1) acceptance (initiatives must start out small and sound to be…

In this issue brief, a number of selected science and engineering concerns are discussed, along with initiatives that contain provisions to address these areas. These include the following: (1) precollege science and mathematics concerns such as teacher shortages, quality of science instruction, and the content of science courses; (2) mathematics…

This guide describes classroom activities and instructional techniques, including the use of computer programs, to be used in implementing the first-year core French language curriculum for Georgia's public schools. Activities are correlated with goals and objectives specified in the state curriculum. Each provides information and directions for…

This guide, designed to be accompanied by computer software, contains classroom activities and instructional techniques to be used in implementing the first-year core German language curriculum for Georgia's public schools. Activities are correlated with goals and objectives specified in the state curriculum. Each provides information and…