Provides a brief discussion of the controversial issue of logging as it relates to the extinction of the spotted owls. Suggests ways to help students understand both sides of the issue. (ZWH)

This seven part teacher's guide is designed to accompany the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) television series, "Columbus and the Age of Discovery," and also may be used without viewing the programs. The guide features seven units that reflect the themes of the television series. The units are: (1) "Columbus's World"; (2)…

Provides an overview and background information on the debate over gun control, as well as several teaching ideas. Handouts include a list of related topics drawn from various disciplines (economics, U.S. history), seven arguments for and against gun control, and a set of policy evaluation guidelines. (MJP)

Traces the application of the constitutional protection from "unreasonable searches and seizures" as it has evolved in response to public attitudes and changes in technology. Includes a synopsis of relevant cases and two lesson plans. The cases concern a police search through trash bags and drug testing for athletes. (MJP)

The purpose of this activity sourcebook is to help teachers of K-12 classes guide their students in examining the concept of peace and the means and structures by which it is preserved. Designed to complement a program on nuclear issues, over 100 activities in this volume examine peace within the context of personal, social, and international…

Based on the book, "South Africa: Time Running Out," a report of the Study Commission on U.S. Policy Toward Southern Africa, this 10-20 day unit of study is designed to help high school students learn about the history, geography, and present situation in South Africa and its relationship to the United States. The first of four sections…

Discusses four major approaches to teaching about controversial issues frequently cited in educational literature: problem solving, public issues, decision making, and moral reasoning. Provides guidelines for structuring large-group discussions, small-group discussions, and debates within these approaches. Includes a list of instructional…

Part of a series which offers educational resources and teaching techniques related to major social issues to high school social studies classroom teachers, the guide focuses on government regulation. The document is presented in four major chapters. Chapter I explores how economic and political science frameworks can be used to analyze policy…

Delineates four compelling reasons for placing bioethical issues, including abortion, in a curricular context. These include linking ethics and civics, preparing informed decision makers, public debate, and studying the future today. Includes activities and questions designed to provide students with a conceptual focus. (MJP)

The interdisciplinary curriculum on global economic and social development and interdependence traces Western development trends, investigates current issues and processes in development, and offers a development planning exercise. An introductory section serves as a teacher's guide. It discusses the skills developed by the activities, suggests…

Maintains that teachers must act a clear role or roles when discussing controversial issues. Discusses the various roles a teacher may assume, including presiding judge, determined advocate, nurturant facilitator, and socratic cross-examiner. Suggests which scenarios may work best with different roles. (MJP)

By focusing on controversial social/political issues in high school American history and social studies courses, classroom teachers can help students develop critical thinking skills. Contemporary issues of a controversial nature are particularly good topics for high school because students are generally familiar with the issues through exposure…

Presents three law-related education lesson plans discussing the relationship between church and state. The first two lessons, establishment of religion and free exercise of religion, culminate in the third, a round table discussion. The students research, role play, and argue hypothetical and real court cases. (MJP)

Designed to encourage informed and critical thinking on contemporary political issues and processes, the articles, case studies, and activities in this student handbook can be incorporated into secondary school social studies units on government or current events. Seven chapters cover the executive branch of government, Congress, the judiciary,…

Designed to enhance participation in the Close-Up Program's week of study in Washington, D.C. for secondary students, the materials on political processes and issues provided in this student handbook can be useful in secondary level social studies, political science, and current events courses. The booklet is arranged into three sections. Section…