Discusses the present ideal of land ownership compared to the views of Jeffersonian democracy. Traces the concept of the American dream and Jeffersonian ideals through Steinbeck's "Grapes of Wrath." Offers suggestions for teaching about the Great Depression and the novel by demonstrating the conflict of Jeffersonian ideals and the…

Difficulty passing referenda to authorize school bonds necessary for important school capital purposes prompted New Jersey to enact legislation to authorize a school district to acquire a site and school building by lease purchase agreement. Advantages, disadvantages, and voter attitude are discussed. (MLF)

Presents background information on the Homestead Act of 1862 and includes a set of suggested teaching activities to be used in conjunction with replicas of original documents. The Homestead Act provided free land to settlers and was instrumental in settling the west. Includes replicas of an application and certificate. (MJP)

Selecting a site for a new school is an important decision for school board members. To avoid site-selection catastrophes, ask for a report about the planning steps. Document estimates of purchase and development costs; and project budget and a timeline for acquisition, design, and construction. Questions that should be answered are listed. (MLF)

This paper briefly examines the historical background to political independence in African nations, highlighting the control of the colonial masters on those nations. The "hangovers" describes how early colonial control has had serious influence on the development of social studies curriculum in Zimbabwe. The paper concludes by narrating…

This curriculum guide consists of materials for high school vocational agriculture instructors to use in teaching a course in the law and agriculture. Addressed in the individual units of the guide are the following topics: the purpose of the law in our society, the judicial system, contract law, torts, ownership of land, and water rights. Each…

Investigates the situations surrounding, and events involved in, the United States's massive western land acquisition from Mexico in 1845 and 1848. Presents a challenging, thorough, and insightful lesson plan that includes numerous background materials, learning activities, maps, and handouts. (MJP)

Develops a lesson in which students analyze an 1894 petition to the federal government from Moqui women, asking that their matrilineal system of land use not be disturbed. Focuses on cultural differences between perceptions of land ownership. Highlights the Moqui's adjustment to southwestern aridity and John Wesley Powell's efforts to influence…

American history is looked at through the eyes of Native Americans. Chapter 1 covers legends and theories concerning the origins of the American Indians, the arrival of Columbus and the European stereotype of the American Indian, the early relationships between the Indians and Europeans, and the disputes over land. Chapter 2 discusses the United…