Identifies writing projects, children's literature, role-playing activities, and community resources that teachers can use in instructing young children about the Bill of Rights. Reminds teachers not to be overzealous in presenting the subject. Suggests that guest speakers and field trips are likely to have a greater impact upon students than most…

Contends that middle- and upper-income youth may indirectly be the beneficiaries of social systems that are based on policies of injustice for the sake of profit or power. Suggests using an approach that helps such young people see that the establishment of social justice is beneficial to them as well as to the victims of injustice. (CFR)

Recommends using time bonding (finding a role model and researching the process and story behind that individual's accomplishments) as a means to interest students in history. Outlines the instructions covering the objectives of the writing assignments. Students researched a variety of biographies including Jackie Robinson and Lyndon Johnson. (MJP)

Contends that teachers often demand creative and concise writing but do not provide students with concrete suggestions. Presents an approach to writing instruction using geometric figures as models for essay writing. Includes 10 examples of models with essay questions derived from each model's conceptual base. (CFR)

Asserts that teaching report writing to students is a difficult task. Discusses four dimensions of student report writing and emphasizes the importance of visual aids to help students comprehend the material on which reports are based. Describes semantic webbing and cooperative groups to teach outlining and report writing. (CFR)

Discusses how jury duty for a murder trial led to the development of a simulation in which students serve as jurors for a murder trial. Provides role descriptions, testimony, and instructions for using the simulation. Outlines suggestions for student writing assignments and adapting the simulation for different regions. (CFR)

Contends that historical fiction can generate lively discussions among students about relevant social science concepts and contemporary social problems. Discusses why literature is a preferable alternative to many history and social studies textbooks. Presents a literature-based unit for eighth-grade U.S. history. (CFR)

Describes an interdisciplinary instructional unit using the historical novel "The Killer Angels" to teach about the Civil War. Writing assignments focused on character analysis from the novel bolstered by outside historical research. Student response was overwhelmingly positive. Includes suggested guidelines for developing an…

Recommends using informal writing exercises to increase students' involvement in large survey history courses. Explains several activities in which undergraduates collect their thoughts on particular lecture topics. Also suggests that students keep journals to accompany reading assignments. Argues that journal writing enlivens the material and…

Maintains that environmental education in New South Wales is supported as an interdisciplinary priority area. Describes an environmental education/social studies unit using children's literature. Describes six lessons and presents samples of student writing in response to assignments. (CFR)