Describes instructional materials developed by the Close Up Foundation for use in its various programs. Asserts that the books, videotapes, and simulations meet student and teacher needs for relevant, high-interest, instructional materials. Concludes with a description of the development process used by the foundation. (CFR)

Maintains that current efforts to reform education and social studies are cycles of media hyperbole and political hope. Contends that issues underlying various programs are really about power and control. Argues that social studies has a role in making schools and students models of democratic thought and action. (CFR)

Describes the MAGIC ME program in which urban middle school students visit and form relationships with the elderly in nursing homes. The importance of meaningful long-term service is demonstrated through anecdotes of the interaction between students and older adults. MAGIC ME has a history of success in many communities. (SLD)

Maintains that controversial issues related to social studies can be addressed using a three-step process. Step one consists of expressing the issue as a dilemma. In step two the students analyze every aspect of the dilemma, engaging in discussion and argument. Step three, the class reaches a consensus. (MJP)

Briefly reviews a set of reference books and curriculum guides that lead teachers to resources for teaching moral, social, and civic lessons. Includes reviews of "Literature-Based Moral Education" and "Teaching Conflict Resolution through Children's Literature." (MJP)

Examines one of the least understood institutions of U.S. politics, the Electoral College. Discusses the historical circumstances resulting in its creation as well as the current structure and membership. Provides arguments for and against continuation of the Electoral College. (MJP)

Criticizes the presidential primary process as possibly leading to the destruction of the two-party system. Claims that the current process limits the competition to the rich and famous, enhances the worst aspects of campaigning, and evaluates candidates purely on their political skills. Briefly discusses some reform proposals. (MJP)

The Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has contracted with the Learning and Skills Network to support awareness and take-up of Triple Science GCSEs through the Triple Science Support Programme. This publication provides an introduction to teaching and learning approaches for the extension topics within GCSE Biology. It highlights…

An information guide for people who help newcomers to Canada, this book helps second language teachers plan the content of their courses, and makes it easier for settlement agency workers to respond to newcomers' needs. The method it advocates is question and answer, with the newcomer asking the questions. The ultimate goal of the book is to…

Designed to help students better understand the controversial issue of affirmative action, this teacher's guide supplements the thirty-minute instructional videotape of the same name. The videotape explores the history of affirmative action in the United States, including its successes, failures, and future. The videotape and the teacher's guide…

The Ohio Fourth-grade Proficiency Tests, which are described in this information guide, are designed to measure a fourth-grade level of literacy and basic competence. Proficiency tests in writing, reading, mathematics, and citizenship were implemented in March 1995, and a science assessment is planned for March 1996. These tests will be…

This report on the experimental Northeast Global Studies Middle Magnet School in Kansas City, Missouri, discusses the planning and implementation of a global studies curriculum to be implemented by the school. The 1990-1991 school year was the school's first as a magnet school under a consent decree issued by a federal judge. The decree was…

This book includes contributions from seven authors with diverse backgrounds, whose specializations include the area of social studies education, software development, computer science, and visual design. The chapters are: (1) "Online Learning Communities: Implications for the Social Studies" (Lynn A. Fontana); (2) "Bringing Preservice Teachers…

This document reports on the results of five surveys conducted during the 1980s by the Field Institute and Los Angeles Times that included questions of particular interest to the Latino community. Between 1982 and 1989, 6,668 California residents participated in the 5 surveys. Surveys included questions addressing the impact of Latino immigration…

This book is a compilation of 12 articles and papers on topics of relevance to adult education in India. "Nonformal Education in the Learning Society" highlights the importance of this type of education. "Adult Education in India" presents one educator's views about this topic, the size and dimensions of the problems, and the…