This article describes the development process and products of a two-year project designed to improve basic skills instruction in existing secondary social studies courses. Includes a sample lesson plan and student handouts. (JDH)

Examines the representation of South Africa in geography and history textbooks currently being used in American schools. Asserts that these books are flawed with misleading, inaccurate, and racist texts and illustration. Offers recommendations for revising the view American students are given of South Africa. (KH)

Case study of how a 10th-grade New York State global-history teacher attempts to understand one of several messages broadcast by the new state curriculum and assessment policies, namely that state policies promote ambitious teaching and learning. Finds that while the teacher altered her teaching, she did so in ways that did not comport with the…

This description of the development of a courseware package for teaching international issues to secondary school students discusses components of the package, including databases, spreadsheets, a text, a teacher guide, tests, worksheets, and lesson plans. The steps involved in using one of the lessons are outlined as an example. (CLB)

Proposes a new role for middle school teachers in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. This role involves reexamination of curriculum content in world cultures, geography, history, and comparative religions to give students a fuller idea of their place in the world and the concepts of justice and fairness as practiced in the…

Provides an introduction to the subject of global awareness, and discusses the kinds of resources that library media specialists ought to consider to provide support for classroom teaching in this emerging field. An annotated list of books, periodicals, organizations, and bibliographies is included. (Author/EM)

A survey found that secondary U.S. history textbooks provided the most coverage of propaganda and included the largest number of examples for student analysis. Very little coverage of propaganda was found in world geography and world history texts. A few government texts provided excellent coverage, but most gave the subject little attention. (RM)

Uses Japanese family crests to motivate students to construct a family history. Includes background information on Japanese history and culture. Provides an outline for the student research project. Supplies a list of Japanese emblems and their symbolism. (NL)

Maintains that, although 18th-Century historians understand the significance of environmental influences, the concept of environmental history did not emerge until the mid-1900s. Discusses the influence of Earth Day, Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring," and the landing of humans on the moon. (CFR)