It was the purpose of this study to determine the readability level of all social studies textbooks authorized for purchase in the adoption made by the Textbook Commission of the Indiana State Board of Education on December 12, 1968 for five years beginning July 1, 1969. A thorough search of the literature and research did not reveal that their…

Presents a technique by which educators or laymen can measure textbooks' treatment of various population groups. Also reviews textbook evaluation methods developed by the National Education Association and the Council on Interracial Books for Children. (AV)

Describes the nature and form of knowledge that should be in social studies textbooks. Argues that substantial knowledge can be used by academic reviewers and teachers as a framework for analysis of social studies texts and to encourage dialogue about the purpose and structure of social studies lessons. (BSR)

Provides a review of the use of history textbooks in United States schools. Focuses special attention on studies which sought to determine the treatment of specific groups or themes in secondary history textbooks by applying content analysis techniques. Concludes that only a limited number of studies quantified the data upon which the analysis was…

Explores the relationship between a major reliance on textbooks, and the problem solving, inquiry oriented approach to social studies curriculum. (JB)

Discusses the results of several studies which evaluated how Africa was and is presented in elementary and secondary social studies textbooks. In the past five years, the coverage given to Africa has increased in quantity and quality. However, major new problems have arisen. (RM)

Social studies educators interested in estimating the comprehensibility of social studies textbooks should pay attention to concepts. The assumptions of previous learning, the development and presentation of concepts, and concept loading are discussed. (RM)

Explores the ability of social studies education to include balanced controversial issues within its textual materials. Suggests a code of content for the textbook industry and social studies educators, stating that the textbook industry should seek and develop ideas relating to controversial public issues and that personal opinions of authors in…

Findings from a Fry readability test indicated that the readability of "This Is America's Story" was about ninth-grade level but that many junior high school students would find the text too difficult because of readability variation. (DB)

Focuses on how political attitudes have been influenced by American history textbooks at various times throughout history. Excerpts from traditional and revisionist textbooks are presented, with emphasis on "America Revised" by Frances FitzGerald. Journal available from Harper's Magazine Co., 2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016. (DB)

Based on premise that knowledge of other peoples and places is no longer a luxury but rather a pragmatic life tool, article focuses on the image of Japan in textbooks used in social studies classes throughout the United States. Suggests that U.S. textbooks get high marks on factual information but score low in context, analysis, and perspective.…

To support the hypothesis that much misinformation and many stereotypic attitudes are presented about Africa to elementary school pupils, the article analyzes 10 readers for African content and assesses effects of an African content intervention strategy on elementary school students. (DB)

Reviews "People in a World of Change" (elementary series); "The Midwest: Regional Backgrounds" (intermediate kit); "Idea and Action in World Cultures" (junior high text); "Psychology and Human Experience" (high school text); "Hands On! Remedial Activities in American History" (spirit masters/secondary); and "Manual for Multicultural and Ethnic…

This article reports the findings of a study that analyzed the teacher editions of primary-grade science and social studies textbooks for comprehension strategy instruction. After observing several science and social studies classes in the primary grades, it became clear to the authors that strategy instruction was missing in many of the lessons.…

A 2-part annotated bibliography is designed to assist school administrators, library media specialists, and teachers in selecting materials for their social studies programs in grades 9 through 12. Resources were selected by Maryland educators according to five criteria: state goals and subgoals for social studies, quality of materials,…