To improve the teaching of thinking skills, social studies teachers need to identify and select a few key skills on which to focus continuously throughout the K-12 social studies curricula. They also need to identify the attributes of these skills. A model skill description is included. (RM)

To help elementary school social students understand how a government works, the article describes an activity which requires a combination of government-related knowledge and procedural skills. The activity focuses on citizenship decision making and includes a mock presidential election. (DB)

Describes a study conducted in 1975 by the University of Texas to identify basic skills needed for adulthood. Identifies five knowledge areas for required skills, reports results of competency testing of 7,500 adult subjects in the five areas, and reviews implications for life skills instruction in the schools. (AV)

Contends that a building can be a visual history book. Discusses the use of architecture as a way of teaching global studies, technological change, and social studies skills. Includes four figures and suggested ancillary activities. (CFR)