An instructional focus on critical literacy (CL) encourages students to become active readers and writers of cultural texts so that they can create their own meanings in order to shape and transform their social conditions (Lankshear & McLaren, 1993; Shor, 1992). It is, however, seldom pursued with English learners (ELs) because teachers…

The selection of an elementary-level reading series in a small California town caused a divisive backlash from some parents who are claiming their rights to supervise their children's reading material. The controversy is reported through excerpts from interviews with representatives from both sides of the issue. (JD)

Reports published by the New Zealand Department of Education and other agencies there illustrate the connection which can prevail between human relations education and a failure to consider critically the ethical issues involved in sex education. A philosophical discussion of love and justice and their relationship to sex education follows. (PP)

Neutrality is of questionable relevance in teaching social issues related to racial or sex discrimination. Because these essentially moral issues are relevant to everyone, a teacher should be committed to fundamental values of justice, fairness, and respect for others. Teaching methods include development of cognitive and affective qualities and…

Presents two opposing viewpoints concerning the legalization of drugs. States that control efforts are not cost effective and suggests that legalization with efforts at education is a better course of action (W. Chambliss). The opposing argument contends that the cost in human suffering negates any savings in dollars gained through legalization…

Discusses the introduction of environmental philosophy into courses on the philosophical aspects of social and world problems, philosophical theology, modern European ideas, and moral philosophy. Describes some of the opportunities for, and constraints upon, the teaching of environmental philosophy in British and American universities. (TW)

Recounts the battle over the first attempt in U.S. history to implement sex education in a citywide system of public schools. Frames this conflict as part of an ongoing collision between progressive, social science-oriented reformers and a traditionalist populace. Discusses the reform movement's shift from moral to scientific authority. (MJP)

This document presents results of a survey studying the Japanese picture book, "Hiroshima No Pika." The story aptly captures how a family of three find their lives shattered in a matter of seconds when the atomic bomb is dropped on Hiroshima (Japan) in World War II. Issues presented in the story are: (1) immediate survival in the face of…

Investigates Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) education in public schools, arguing that preoccupation with sex education masks several problems associated with AIDS education. Contends that moral-political educational issues are renewed by the AIDS problem. Identifies liberal and conservative positions on AIDS education, showing their…

Discussion of National Science Foundation (NSF) funding of precollege science education revolves around the controversy of whether NSF should fund "Man: A Course of Study" (MACOS). NSF had funded MACOS' curriculum development, implementation, and postevaluation during 1963-1975. The controversy began in March 1975 when U.S. Congressman…