In September 1977, all of France's middle schools implemented the so-called "collège unique" reform in the seventh year, i.e. the elimination of tracking (or streaming) and the mixing of all pupils and teachers for the first year of secondary education. This article examines the genesis and implementation of this reform from the point of…

Explicates a rationale for, and several approaches to, teaching about the Holocaust. Some insights to be gained include the value and necessity of democratic institutions; understanding the ramifications of prejudice, racism, and stereotyping; and the responsibilities of individuals and organizations when faced with abuses of power. (MJP)

Recounts a personal anecdote describing an informal visit to the White House by Harry Hopkins' son. Although the son of one of Roosevelt's closest advisors, Robert Hopkins enlisted in the army as a private. Roosevelt wrote a note to the young man's commanding officer explaining his late return to camp. (MJP)

Presents background information and instructional materials for a lesson plan concerning the interaction between Jackie Robinson and President Eisenhower regarding the integration of public schools in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robinson chided the President for his cautious response to violent opposition to integration. Includes a copy of the…

Profiles the elaborate attempts by the Roosevelt White House to hide his disability from the public. Early in his career, polio resulted in Franklin Roosevelt being paralyzed from the waist down. Although never officially denied, the White House went to extraordinary lengths to keep this knowledge from the public. (MJP)

Personalizes the devastating effect of the Great Depression on young people through excerpts of letters sent to Eleanor Roosevelt. Young people across the country responded to the First Lady's efforts on behalf of the poor and dispossessed. Discusses the many relief and work programs created by the New Deal. (MJP)

Examines the controversy over the representation of President Roosevelt in the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, DC. The sculptures in the memorial do not show Roosevelt's cane, braces, or wheelchair. Disability advocates claim that this reinforces shameful stereotypes. Memorial supporters believe it should reflect the public…

Characterizes the New Deal as "the single most important twentieth-century episode in the creation of the modern American state." Discusses the astonishing range of legislative activity enacted to respond to the Great Depression and the ensuing political opposition. Frankly evaluates those programs that failed. (MJP)

Characterizes the New Deal public works program as combining the short-term goal of unemployment relief with the long-term goal of regional economic development. Discusses the planning, implementation, and political opposition of the New Deal's many public works programs including the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Works Progress…

Describes Eleanor Roosevelt's efforts to correct institutional racism. Mrs. Roosevelt worked continually in support of civil rights for African Americans in employment, housing, and the armed services. Her efforts often were met with vehement and venomous opposition. (MJP)

Utilizes letters to the First Lady and President Roosevelt as primary sources for a series of activities supporting a unit on the Great Depression. The letter to Mrs. Roosevelt asks for some old clothes for a needy family. The letter to President Roosevelt expresses dissatisfaction with his efforts. (MJP)

Presents a concise and interesting overview of the rise and extension of labor activity during the New Deal. Labor took advantage of Roosevelt's pro-union policies to consolidate their power and forever transform the lives of working men and women. Discusses improvements in working conditions, wages, and benefits. (MJP)

Examines the controversy generated by art works commissioned by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Attempting to create work for depression-era artists, the WPA often commissioned murals for government buildings. Recounts the experience of Seymour Fogel, who's positive portrayal of Native Americans ran afoul of racist sentiments in Safford,…

Lists and briefly describes an array of educational resources relating to Franklin Roosevelt and the New Deal. Includes notable books, organizations, videos, audio cassettes, software, educational kits, and simulations. Collections of art, photographs, and cartoons also are available. Includes price and ordering information. (MJP)

Presents 11 interdisciplinary projects that can be used as part of a unit of study on the Great Depression. The projects incorporate various styles of learning and disciplines, including art, music, mathematics, literature, and history. The projects include debates, dramatizations, creating newspapers, and collecting oral histories. (MJP)