States that the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution, celebrated between 1987 and 1991, provides opportunities for the social studies curriculum. Discusses the need for increased knowledge of the Constitution and presents an approach to better understanding. (GEA)

Notes the recent trend toward converting sound filmstrips into videocassettes. Reviews offerings from commercial publishers which treat topics related to the constitutional bicentennial and the colonial history of the United States. (JDH)

Like other institutions, schools are occupied by people whose duties and liberties are in conflict. Understanding the Bill of Rights can help resolve school problems as well as major social problems outside the court system. Students should value the first eight constitutional amendments as not tied to majority rule and should study them…

Using the Iran-Contra Affair as an illustration, Shermis describes how civics instruction fails to prepare students for effective participation in U.S. society. Examining five textbooks, he concludes that issues are so condensed and sanitized that there is no opportunity for students to think critically and practice necessary problem-solving…

The paper discusses the pressure on social studies teachers to teach about the United States Constitution during its bicentennial period and offers ideas to improve instruction about the document. After reviewing the inappropriateness of memorization of the document and suggesting that its content be organized to focus on its major concepts and…

Stating that students should learn more about the U.S. Constitution than superficial details, Vile advocates the teaching of 12 basic constitutional principles that are essential to the nature and success of the U.S. government. These principles include the rule of law, individual rights, and the dangers of concentrated power. (GEA)

Summarizes eight items from the ERIC database. Materials featured cover a holistic approach to U.S. sea experience, effects of post-war changes upon individuals, the case for a core curriculum, celebration of the U.S. Constitution's Bicentennial, western civilization, the Cold War, a topical approach to history, and oral history of immigrants and…

This document addresses the questions of what teachers have achieved during the U. S. Constitution Bicentennial celebration in the areas of curriculum development and instruction and whether or not the celebration has been accompanied by educational renewal and improvement in secondary schools. Persistent problems in teaching and learning about…

Reaffirms the importance of civic education and active learning about the Bill of Rights and attendant civic responsibilities. Identifies four categories of knowledge deficiencies about the Bill of Rights. Explores four key ways to improve teaching and learning about the Bill of Rights. Stresses connections between civic knowledge and the vitality…