Where textbooks introduce readers to history via specific terminology and short passages, trade books present historical eras through relatable characters and engaging prose. For most topics, trade books are numerous enough for teachers to select multiple titles written at distinct reading levels to differentiate for diverse learners.…

Maintains that the role of technology and its civic implications can be explored through children's literature. Provides a bibliographical essay of 19 books that address how things work, how technology affects everyday life, and how society shapes its technological future. (CFR)

Reviews criticism of elementary social studies textbooks, focusing on how the written text, the pictures, and graphics often seem unrelated. Asserts that the inclusion and use of literature selections in K-3 social studies textbooks is a newly emerging strategy. (CFR)

Asserts that children's literature which explores geographic themes such as place and movement can foster real life applications of mathematics and social studies. Presents a review of 14 books grouped thematically to illustrate possibilities for integrating mathematics throughout the social studies curriculum. (CFR)

Asserts that children's literature is a natural vehicle for developing geographic literacy. Discusses instructional techniques for teaching geographic concepts using children's books. Offers an annotated bibliography of 14 books, including a story summary, the geographic setting, and recommended grade level. (CFR)

Maintains that implementing the new social studies curriculum standards has been a challenge for many elementary teachers. Asserts that high-quality children's literature is essential for an integrated, multicultural curriculum. Provides an annotated bibliography of 13 teacher resource books. (CFR)

Contends that, although the concept of integrating language arts or science activities to social studies can be a powerful instructional strategy, it may neglect social content. Suggests that social studies teachers introduce books to their colleagues in other subject areas so they can integrate social studies content into their instruction. (CFR)

Asserts that patriotic holidays are an important aspect of the social studies curriculum and provide opportunities to study history. Gives a set of questions and answers about the origins of Thanksgiving. Includes references to recommended children's literature related to the topic. (CFR)

Asserts that children's literature is an effective tool to access and present sophisticated social studies concepts in the elementary classroom. Maintains that realistic fiction can integrate the social sciences with philosophy and religion. Presents a bibliographic essay including children's books and teacher resources. (CFR)

Contends that elementary students' interests and imagination can be enhanced by using a variety of children's literature in the classroom. Asserts that students grasp an interdisciplinary sense of historical periods and trends by studying narratives. Presents a bibliographic essay and suggested instructional activities on the topic. (CFR)

Asserts that social studies is a natural medium for teaching cross-cultural understanding and making education more meaningful for students from different ethnic, social, or cultural backgrounds. Presents a bibliographical essay including recommended teacher and student resources on issues related to multiculturalism and national unity. (CFR)

Asserts that stereotypes about Native Americans may override more accurate information presented by teachers or found in textbooks. Recommends the use of children's literature to achieve recognized social studies goals. Includes a lesson plan with three tables, teaching instructions, and suggested children's literature. (CFR)

Contends that social studies teachers must encourage young citizens to appreciate that diversity is one of the nation's strengths. Maintains that quality literature has an important role to play in achieving this goal. Provides a bibliographic essay on 19 trade books divided into 3 age-group categories. (CFR)

Asserts that citizens are aware of growing global diversity and interdependence. Maintains that simply providing children with information about other cultures is not enough. Provides a bibliographic essay divided into eight themes related to cultural diversity. (CFR)

Contends that young children are fascinated by big books and teachers find them enjoyable and effective. Discusses appropriate multicultural content for big books and presents suggestions for effective classroom use. Includes a bibliography of big books categorized into six multicultural groupings. (CFR)