This catalog of instructional resources for teaching about Japan provides annotated entries under three main headings: Japan Resources (resources that are specific to Japan); General Resources (materials that are Japan-related but not Japan-specific); and Organizations. Japan Resources, which includes the major portion of the materials, lists 110…

This unit of study focuses on belief systems from China. It is crucial that students understand there are different ways of viewing the world, all of which may be valid. The 20 lessons in the unit stem from the presumptions that place students in the role of "historian" for the duration of these China studies. The unit is divided into…

This updated set of lesson plans focuses on Confucius and Confucian thought, especially Confucian ethics. The lesson plans are divided into the following chapters: (1) "How do the Analects embody the ethical framework of Confucian thought?"; (2) "How does Confucianism affect behavior, attitudes and beliefs?"; (3) "How did…

This book is a collection of essays designed for high school and college teachers who want to introduce non-Western and other non-canonical texts into their traditional literature courses. The essays in the book explore the kinds of visions encountered when teachers cluster Western texts with those outside the dominant Western tradition. Papers in…

This two day lesson plan for middle school students examines Marco Polo's travels and trade during the Middle Ages. The unit consists of four activities: (1) journal entry/brainstorming; (2) lecture on trade items of the Middle Ages and Marco Polo; (3) simulation of Marco Polo's Journey; and (4) a writing assignment. It provides step-by-step…

The author notes a growing trend toward the inclusion of world musics at both the elementary/secondary and higher education levels. He presents a rationale for studying world musics and cites the importance of giving students an understanding of cultural context in such study. (SJL)

The guide provides information about Japan to assist elementary and secondary educators and students. It contains five major categories of information: (1) "Specialists on Japan and Japanese Studies," an extensive state-by-state directory of resource persons who are either Japan scholars at the post-secondary school level or elementary…

Contends that the lack of trained non-Western historians requires that Western historians must attempt to present world history from a global perspective. Describes a world region approach that uses overlapping spheres to link nations and cultures throughout history. Includes recommended resources for this approach. (CFR)

Developed as an annotated guide to instructional materials for teaching about the Arab world, this publication is a resource tool for classroom instruction, development of curricula, professional development, and selection of library resources. Recommendations are made based on a careful evaluation of educational soundness, ethnic authenticity,…

Contends that the commonly held notion that non-European peoples have had no experience with democratic practices is not supported by the evidence. Maintains that aspects of self-government have appeared in many non-European societies throughout history. Urges historians to recognize these examples and include them in their teaching. (CFR)

This document presents a study unit on Australia for secondary school students. A student reading examines Australia's cultural conflicts, history, 20th century development, and recent government policy. Australia's commitment to multiculturalism, the benefits of immigration, and the prospects for the future are also explored. The teacher's…

Argues that for years the emphasis on historical specialization relegated world history to the academic dustbin. Maintains that the globalization of culture, economics, and societies has created a reimagining of world history. Discusses issues and presents recommendations on research and curriculum development in world history. (CFR)

Evaluates the California History Social Science Framework from the perspective of a world civilizations social studies teacher. Criticizes the coverage expected and the Framework's implicit racism. Develops an approach to teaching world history and includes questions to be examined, challenging racist interpretations, limited perspectives, and…

Explores the vital development of the Pacific Rim. Advocates integrating the study of this region into social studies curricula. Criticizes the Eurocentric bias that results in ignoring the Pacific Rim's geography, history, literature, and languages. Reports on social studies programs, primarily in Alaska schools, where study of the Pacific Rim…

This document presents lesson plans for instruction concerning the history and geography of the continent of Africa. Topics include: (1) "The Challenge of Teaching African History and Culture" (Robert Hamilton); (2) "A Physical Overview of Africa" (Robert Hamilton and Kim Lilly); (3) "A Cultural Overview of Africa"…