This article discusses how local history can be used by teachers to help develop historical thinking skills such as source analysis, the collection of data, and the creation of historical arguments. Using New York City as a case study, this article argues that urban spaces and local communities provide historical evidence that can be read and…

Two social studies methods instructors created an assignment that places teacher candidates in leadership roles in partnerships with community organizations to plan and implement projects to increase student learning. This article outlines the project requirements, past project results, and student reflections on the collaborative effort. It…

Giving students a sense of efficacy in the political process is one of the most important functions of social studies education. In order to enable students to assume the responsibilities of fully functioning citizens, it is important for social studies educators to encourage and foster political participation among students as part of the…

The problems and advantages of using museums, environmental education centers, and community groups for teaching about the Bicentennial are examined. (JR)

A local educational agency in St. Louis, the Citizenship Education Clearinghouse (CECH), works with schools to make real participation in community civic, governmental, and political affairs a possibility for students. Three CECH models for student participation in issues of national concern, in state politics, and in local issues are described.…

Recognizing that the public good is a key concept for children now and in the future, educators call for discussion and investigation of public issues and student involvement in them. Cites programs in New York and Minnesota. Lists sources of classroom social studies materials. (MLF)

Discusses programs sponsored by groups that promote history instruction in the state of Maine. Reports recent developments concerning Maine's social studies curriculum. Underscores the significance of and financial problems facing "Maine's Common Core of Learning," a program setting out what the state's youth should know in the…

This article features the Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools. Social studies educators emphasize the civic mission of schools, and the need to provide students with citizenship education of the highest quality. As National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) members are well aware, the focus of recent educational reforms has…

This report, a supplement to "The Constitution and the Community: A Resource for Planning Humanities-Based Programs on the United States Constitution," describes resources for community oriented U.S. Constitution bicentennial celebration programs. Part 1 outlines basic planning procedures in terms of: (1) focusing on humanities; (2)…

This issue of "Service Learning Network" examines a world where teachers, students, and community members break the age barrier in service to their communities. "Images of Intergenerational Service" (Paul Simon), offers images of intergenerational service from political and personal points of view. "The Gathering of…

Traces the history of Arthurdale, West Virginia, a homestead community established by the U.S. Department of the Interior's Division of Subsistence Homesteads in 1933. Includes Arthurdale's community projects, activities, and schools. (RW)

Designed to aid teachers in the classroom, this guide provides a list of materials recently prepared for the kindergarten through grade 12 classroom by folklorists and other cultural studies specialists in closely related fields and includes a selected list of agencies with established commitments to folklife programming. After a definition of…

Designed to assist organizations preparing to celebrate the Bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution through community and school events, this guide provides educational ideas that can be useful in directing the public's attention to the Constitution and the values it represents. Information is included on selecting forum formats, such as mock…

This resource booklet is to assist agencies and schools in creating service-learning opportunities for youth to enhance and build upon the classroom education. The document includes sections on: (1) "Youth Serving Communities"; (2) "What is Service Learning?"; (3) "A Win-Win Opportunity"; (4) "Agency Concerns about Service Learning"; (5) "What…

This handbook is to assist agencies and schools in developing coalitions for Youth Engaged in Service, to build better citizens and healthier communities. Seven examples of the community building process are presented to demonstrate what others have tried. Highlighted communities include: (1) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; (2) New York, New York; (3)…