Addresses differences in process and content teaching in the social studies. Suggests a curriculum with a conceptual approach and outlines educational objectives in terms of knowledge, concepts, and skills. (KC)

Described are four techniques for improving student reading skills, particularly comprehension and vocabulary expansion, in ethnic studies classes. The techniques involve the use of oral research reports, diagrams, cartoons, and multisensory demonstrations. (Author/DB)

Argues that the California History Social Science Framework brings challenges to elementary teachers. Reviews five of these challenges and recommends solutions. Contends that staff development is the key to successful implementation of the Framework. (CFR)

Relates how character education can be quickly incorporated into the curriculum when teachers, the school, and the community share mutual goals and work as a team. Outlines some of the techniques used such as devoting each month to a specific character attribute and sending home newsletters to keep parents informed. (MJP)

Examines an earth-focus in social studies as a means of fostering better understanding of the physical environment. Presents evidence that this type of study will improve students' knowledge of the economic, historical, and social processes of the earth's inhabitants. (DB)

Asserts that education cannot be limited to the confines of a textbook but must be a true window to the world. Argues that this can be achieved through curriculum and thematic teaching. Provides suggestions for designing and teaching integrated, thematic units. (CFR)

Discusses the use of historical novels in social studies curriculum. The author explains why the novel is useful as well as how an inquiry and aesthetic reading novel curriculum approach can be used and the benefits of using this approach. (AM)

Presents a plan for developing and teaching an interdisciplinary curriculum unit combining social studies/social science and English/language arts. Argues that an integrated curriculum based on history and social studies is the key to an effective interdisciplinary unit. Provides suggested resources and instructional ideas. (CFR)

Presents ideas to aid high school social studies classroom teachers as they teach students the impact of media advertising for political candidates. Students are involved in activities to decide which candidate for president they would select on the basis of several media presentations. (DB)

Argues that secondary economics teachers must help students learn to apply fundamental economics concepts to real problems. Advocates the critical thinking approach. Outlines goals, objectives, content, and procedures for an inquiry lesson that teaches the concepts land, labor, and capital through a problem-solving, hypothesis-testing method.…

Defines a rationale for teaching decision-making skills and outlines an eight-step decision-making process. Describes how the process may be applied at all levels, in classrooms, and in dealing with students' personal problems. (Author/KC)

Emphasizes the power of storytelling, particularly heroic stories of virtue, in moral education. Provides a careful delineation of the differences between modern moral "fables" (a man contemplates stealing drugs for his dying wife) and classical stories involving heroes such as Ulysses and Galahad. (MJP)

Distinguishes weak forms of critical thinking (restricted to logical thinking) from strong forms of critical pedagogy (incorporating a moral component into critical thinking). Sees evidence of weak forms in the 1987 California History-Social Science Framework. Contends that social studies must be interdisciplinary, global in perspective,…

Agrees with the National Standards emphasis on the constructivist approach, stressing students applying their knowledge through active involvement. Reiterates the value of workshops and seminars in keeping teachers abreast of developments. Proposes publicizing successful strategies and supporting innovations. (MJP)

There are many reading abilities that students need in order to read and comprehend effectively in the content areas. Discussed are techniques that the teacher can use to make students critical and independent readers. These include the directed reading activity, SQ3R, mapping, the cloze procedure, and various vocabulary techniques. (RM)