In the age of standardized testing, science and social studies are not given the same priority as mathematics and reading in the curriculum of United States schools. High stakes testing is viewed as having heavily biased schools toward teaching tested subjects and away from less frequently tested subjects. This paper is premised on the notion that…

Constructing a matrix model not only offers the teacher a theoretical and practical method for organizing his own knowledge about a topic, but provides a vehicle for the student to cope with contemporary knowledge explosion in a realistic and sophisticated manner. (Author)

This paper summarizes the model used for science/society programs at the University of Houston. The model is examined with respect to the following perspectives: the best disciplinary locus for science-related social issues; optimum teaching style, instructional background, and grade level; appropriate instructional objectives; ethical problems;…