This reader is designed to be used in a one-semester curriculum program which is linked to topics outlined in the American Issues Forum calendar. It is intended for use at the local level. Some of the principal conditions affecting the development of American ideas and institutions are examined. Focus is on the settlement of the North American…

Examines changes in social studies education from the late 1960s into 1980s, stating that it is important today to teach about social issues using some form of values clarification. Advocates the use of such methods so that students may effectively confront today's challenges, namely Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, drug abuse, alcoholism, sex…

Examines a social studies methods course where preservice teachers explored ways to use a variety of materials and sources to engage middle and high school students in higher order thinking about social studies content, especially with regard to historical thinking. Discusses students' responses. (MJP)

Delineates four compelling reasons for placing bioethical issues, including abortion, in a curricular context. These include linking ethics and civics, preparing informed decision makers, public debate, and studying the future today. Includes activities and questions designed to provide students with a conceptual focus. (MJP)

Advocates teaching controversial issues to children, claiming that they already have some knowledge of these through their own experience and media exposure. Describes role-playing activities, including simulated small claims court and city council hearings. Provides an overview of a five-day instructional unit on violence. (MJP)

Examines the inherent dichotomy between the competing needs of maintaining emotional safety and exploring sensitive issues in social studies classrooms. Argues that an effectively safe classroom can serve as a necessary backdrop for addressing controversial issues even in the earliest of grades. Maintains that most teachers simply ignore these…

Describes a middle school history unit focused on the African American experience. The unit is constructed around four general types of historical questions that can be applied to any history unit. These are informational, empathetic, methodological, and analytical/evaluative. Provides examples of each type of question. (MJP)

Maintains that research on political socialization began in the late 1950s and died a premature death in the 1970s. Discusses the field's origins and downfall, and predicts a rebirth in a new and sustainable form. Outlines changes in secondary school political science education and political socialization research in other nations. (CFR)

Discusses the infusion of environmental education across the entire school curriculum as mandated by the state of Washington. Specifies suggestions for agriculture education, art education, foreign language, health education, home economics, industrial education, language arts, mathematics, physical education, science, and social studies. (MCO)

Social studies education in the United States has been viewed by many as a forum in which to socialize new citizens, to ensure that people of differing backgrounds have a history and ideals that they can share. Social studies also is perceived by some as a vehicle through which students can learn the value of conflict and difference, in the…

One of a series of social studies curriculum guides, this publication outlines a second-grade course on neighborhoods. Material is presented in two parts. Part 1, an overview of the program, contains an introduction, a statement of philosophy, an outline of the elementary level scope and sequence, a description of Michigan mandated essential skill…

One of a series of social studies curriculum guides, this publication outlines a fourth-grade course on Michigan and other regions. Material is presented in two parts. Part 1, an overview of the program, contains an introduction, a statement of philosophy, an outline of elementary level scope and sequence, a description of Michigan mandated…

One of a series of social studies curriculum guides, this publication outlines a fifth-grade course on United States history and current events. Material is presented in two parts. Part 1, an overview of the program, contains an introduction, a statement of philosophy, an outline of elementary level scope and sequence, a description of Michigan…

Intended for educators interested in providing peace and nuclear war education in the public schools, this publication examines the nature of peace and nuclear war education, rationales for its inclusion in the public school program, and ways to deal with the controversial nature of the topics. The first of eight chapters presents a four-fold…

This document, a supplement to the "Louisiana Studies Curriculum Guide," was designed to enhance junior high school students' appreciation for the Acadian settlers impact on Louisiana history and culture. A course outline presents four units of study that include: (1) early history; (2) life in Louisiana; (3) social and cultural life;…