The philosophy and major objectives, curriculum, methods and materials of instruction, activity, concretion and motivation, cooperation, individualization, and the major strengths of the programs for social studies in Sweden are outlined and discussed, as are some recommendations for the social studies in the United States. (JB)

Tells about the creation of the High School Geography Project. Beginning with a statement of problems faced by geography instructors, the story continues by examining the creation of project objectives, development of an overarching structure for lessons, and discussion of the project's success. Suggestions for contemporary curriculum design are…

Classroom teachers should depart from the accepted practice of placing the field trip at the end of a unit of social studies instruction and, instead, plan the field experience for the first week of activities. Reasons are discussed, and a sample unit on state government for the middle grades is described. (RM)

Two types of curriculum patterns are outlined and suggested: the thematic, which can be either structural or topical, and the regional. International citizenship is proposed as the goal. (DB)

A model which describes the major decisions a teacher makes during instructional planning is discussed. The theory presented is derived from human learning research that addresses itself to individual differences. (RM)

Argues that economic education is an integral component of social studies and citizenship education. Maintains that adolescents are more likely to believe that one's life is controlled by fate rather than conscious choices. Asserts that teaching economic reasoning can improve students' critical thinking skills and citizenship education. (CFR)

Traces the origins, growth, and decline of the "New Social Studies" movement between 1960 and 1975. Identifies the movement's curriculum projects, individual leaders, and materials. Discusses reasons for its decline and suggests that the 1990s may bring a revival of another period of social studies reform and innovation. (CFR)

Contends that the best way to learn about citizenship is by discussing real societal issues that are connected to student interests. Maintains that a democratic classroom environment also provides an opportunity for practicing civic values. Provides four guidelines for establishing community service projects in the schools. (CFR)

Contends that students should gain three benefits from any history curriculum: knowledge, skills, and an enthusiasm for further study. Asserts that social studies textbooks leave out important, interest-building information. Describes classroom projects using census data and the origin of blues music as examples of social history activities that…

Reports on a study of 124 secondary social studies teachers about the treatment of the 1991 Gulf War in their classrooms. Finds that, with few exceptions, knowledge about the war was provided by television news and other media and that students were not asked to conduct in-depth research or other critical thinking activities. (CFR)

Asserts that, although there is widespread agreement that civic education is a worthy educational goal, there is little agreement about its content or appropriate instructional methods. Maintains that effective moral education must involve discussion of substantive civic-moral issues and consideration of moral alternatives. Recommends using the…

Maintains that criticism of the history National Standards (from educators and historians, not the conservative media) has been unspecific and poorly focused. Argues that standards, by their definition, are exclusionary. Questions the attempt to develop critical thinking at an early age. (MJP)

Defends the history National Standards as an excellent and inclusive guide to the broad topics and themes appropriate to a U. S. history course. Nonetheless, characterizes the Standards as pedagogically conservative. Recommends an alternative approach emphasizing critical thinking and interdisciplinary instruction. (MJP)

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)