Social studies have been marginalized in early childhood education amid the prevalence of standardized testing and political issues. However, a comprehensive approach to early education, including social studies, is gaining attention. This article emphasizes the significance of incorporating social studies into early childhood curriculum,…

Ways in which teachers can help children in kindergarten and the primary grades develop some of the cognitive and affective capabilities necessary for a global perspective are discussed. Specifically examined are course content which fosters global knowledge and which shows how children can be taught to assume the perspective of others. (RM)

The goals for this social studies curriculum are the development of essential concepts, skills, and content that have been identified for the social studies program. The curriculum was designed to meet student needs and interests, to reflect increasing knowledge about child development and learning, and to give attention to the learning…

This paper discusses how fourth- and eighth-grade students in rural Arkansas perceive other countries. Students in fourth grade (N=153) chose among 22 terms to describe Canada, China, Egypt, England, France, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Spain, and the United States. Eighth graders (N=90) were asked to describe separately a set of nations and…

This investigation is concerned with evaluating an instructional method based on Ausubel's description of expository teaching using advance organizers (AO) lessons. AO lessons are a method used to increase retention and transfer by identifying the general ideas that form the structure of a subject matter area. This study distinguishes between AO…

This book presents three models for teaching social studies to young children, each of which is based on use of the senses, concrete experiences, and opportunities to discuss observations. The models can be used as needed with children at differing levels since each addresses a particular level of development. The book focuses on a cognitive…

Asserts that a goal of social studies instruction is to help students make decisions about complicated social issues and that this goal is best accomplished through development of postformal cognitive processes. Defines postformal thought and examines two types: relativistic and dialectical. Shows how postformal thought can be promoted through two…

Examines the relationship between teaching content or knowledge, and teaching the skills of critical thinking and problem solving. Presents key strategies to help students understand and develop critical thinking skills. Recommends use of the developmental lesson and provides several model lessons. (LS)

Discusses recent research in cognitive psychology that identifies how students are likely to respond when controversial issues are included in course content. Points out that controversial material may lead to misunderstandings and forgetting. Provides teaching ideas to enhance student learning and remembering, to deal with emotions, and to foster…

THE SEVENTH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES PROJECT OF THE MILWAUKEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS WAS DESIGNED TO STRENGTHEN THE WORK-STUDY AND COGNITIVE SKILLS OF DISADVANTAGED PUPILS IN THE AREA OF SOCIAL STUDIES. IT WAS EXPECTED THAT THE STUDENTS' KNOWLEDGE OF COURSE CONTENT WOULD INCREASE AND THAT THEIR ATTITUDE TOWARD THEIR ROLE IN SOCIETY WOULD IMPROVE. THE PROJECT…

Examines the inherent dichotomy between the competing needs of maintaining emotional safety and exploring sensitive issues in social studies classrooms. Argues that an effectively safe classroom can serve as a necessary backdrop for addressing controversial issues even in the earliest of grades. Maintains that most teachers simply ignore these…