What do people think of when they hear the word "census"? For some, the word prompts them to think of representation in Congress; others think of genealogy and family history. For still others, the census is viewed as something strange or foreboding. Yet for teachers and students, census records can help create a meaningful and relevant…

Data on age and sex composition are some of the most basic statistics a nation can collect about its people. They are determined by births, deaths, and migration and, in turn, affect other demographic characteristics such as fertility rates and regional changes in population (increases or decreases). In fact, both of these are the two constants…

Once every 10 years, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) makes millions of U.S. census records available for use by eager historians and genealogists. The release of a new batch of census records is a highly anticipated event, but only for the select few who are able to access the published microfilm versions of the census.…

In late 1939, the United States Bureau of the Census was gearing up for the 16th official enumeration, or count, of the nation's population. Authorities wanted to insure widespread participation. So, they made good use of some information revealed in the 1930 Census--namely that roughly 40 percent of American households had a radio set. In…

Many studies of the United States voting have sought to explain why voter participation is declining. Recent research by Michael P. McDonald suggests that the much lamented "decline in voter participation" is an artifact of the way in which turnout rates have been measured. McDonald is an assistant professor of government and politics in…

Most researchers and the Census Bureau expect the U.S. population to hit the 300 million mark sometime in October. This will make the United States the world's third most populous nation--behind China and India. In this article, the author found several websites dealing with the specific 300 million target, population growth in general, and…

In the last two decades, the United States has been in the throes of rapid economic change brought by new technologies and the globalization of the economy. One of the best ways to study the effects of change on the U.S. population is through the abundant information available on the website of the United States Bureau of the Census. In addition…

During the summer of 1787, when the delegates to the Constitutional Convention met in Philadelphia, the issue of representation in Congress was strongly debated. Delegates from the large states favored the Virginia Plan's proposal for two houses of Congress with representation based on population. Delegates from the small states favored equal…

Comments on the importance of the census to the constitutional process. Stresses the census' origin and the importance of the 1990 Census. Remarks on the involvement of the National Council for the Social Studies' (NCSS) efforts to increase educators awareness of the 1990 Census. (LS)

Suggests ways in which primary source materials--in this case, census materials describing Cherokee Indians in the early 19th century--can be used by social studies classroom teachers to help students understand historical events and trends. Teaching methods based on the census materials are suggested, including map and globe work, filling in work…

Examines the importance of the census to the management of a democratic government. States that the census has historically served as a means for apportioning representatives among the states and preventing corruption in political representation. Provides suggestions for teaching about the census in government classes. (LS)

Today, the Census Bureau compiles extensive information every year about the people and the economy of the United States. That is how the authors know that in 2006 the United States is going to reach an extraordinary milestone--300 million people. In this article, the authors discuss the "now and then" of the U.S. society. The authors…

Reviews how census data are used every day to make decisions in businesses, government agencies, and community organizations. Identifies key tools used in demographic analysis, suggesting applications of demographic data at a local level. Concludes with ideas for student activities, including guidelines for creating a community profile. (LS)

Suggests ways census data in the "Statistical Abstract of the United States" may be used to develop thinking skills in economics. Presents a lesson in which students collect data on different types of work done by a small group of workers. Emphasizes the process of classifying workers in order to provide experience with this reasoning…

Presents guidelines teachers may use to develop a series of interdisciplinary lessons on the census for elementary students. Offers rationale for teaching about the census,and outlines social studies objectives that can be met by census activities. Provides ideas for primary and intermediate level activities. (LS)