Young children can engage in close reading, critical thinking, and historical thinking when age-appropriate texts are coupled with discipline-specific tasks. Prior knowledge is an impediment, though. Primary elementary learners simply do not have much of a historical schema. Because of primary elementary students' familiarity with Thanksgiving,…

Discusses the cursory treatment of Mexican Americans and Mexican American History in United States History textbooks and classrooms. Identifies instructional methods useful in engaging student interest. Argues that the present inadequacies of education and educational tools in this area perpetuate existing stereotypes and contribute to cultural…

Discusses teaching styles exhibited by two different history teachers. Describes both teaching styles as epistemological representations, although one consists of a passive approach while the other employs active teacher involvement. Stresses each teacher's use of primary sources to help students see both sides of issues and critically analyze…