Suggests three authentic and empowering roles for writing in the social studies classroom: rhetoric, persuasion, and commentary. Gives examples and suggests activities for each. (SR)

Describes the Jostens Learning Writing Program, which integrates reading, writing, and thinking instruction in realistic literacy tasks, using real-life experiences and everyday applications. (SR)

Argues that no curricular task is more important than encouraging students to deconstruct the powerful social myth of Columbus. Describes ways to invite students to "talk back" to Columbus and all he symbolizes and to encourage students' appreciation of their own capacities to make a difference. (SR)