A junior high school geography class in La Palma, California, offers extensive field trip experiences to teach students methods of historical-geographical research. Resulting from a course that develops research methods in social studies, a club was formed that provides overnight excursions in various field activities. The club is open to 9th and…

An 11th-grade interdisciplinary course combining English and American history examines United States history from the perspective of nine topics, rather than through the traditional, chronological-survey approach. Discovery learning and independent research are the focus of course method. At the start of the course, students are given nine…

This guide presents an analysis and rationale of foreign language programs in elementary and secondary schools, stressing development of cultural understanding through language instruction in the basic skills of the target language. Major sections cover: (1) purposes of foreign language instruction; (2) contributing disciplines--psychology,…

To maintain within a national unity the richness of cultural diversity that has made America great, school curriculums should develop in the child a knowledge of the country's varying cultures. Teachers should initiate for children meaningful experiences with other cultures to help them appreciate the differences and similarities among people. One…

The guide outlines an interdisciplinary social science course for grades 7-12. The overall curriculum goal is that students learn the skills, values and concepts essential to citizenship in a democratic society. Teaching activities suggested include class discussions, role playing, debate, mapwork, written reports, group and individual research,…

Classroom activities for directing student inquiry into the role of the individual in the future are provided in this text. Activities are presented within a framework of respect for and understanding of the past and the present. A matrix for the study of the individual as a whole person is presented. The matrix is devised along the present, past,…

Nineteen models for teaching major generalizations, concepts, and valuing processes in elementary social studies are described. Intended for use by elementary social studies teachers, the models can be used as self-contained units, introductions to a more extensive course of study, and supplementary materials to enrich existing programs. The…

This manual is intended to assist teachers in Nebraska's schools in meeting the needs of high-ability learners in their classrooms. Chapter 1 focuses on curriculum differentiation regarding the content, process, and product. Bloom's taxonomy of thinking is discussed; a list of acceptable student projects for elementary and secondary students is…

This paper presents the framework used in implementing "Marketing on the Web," an interdisciplinary course that integrates marketing and technology strategies, with an approach that is grounded in cognitive psychology and in constructionist theory. Though applied at the undergraduate level, the framework may be adapted to primary through graduate…

Provides a discussion of the structure and procedures of a classroom exercise using scenes from "The Grapes of Wrath," to illustrate different environmental philosophies. After viewing scenes from the film, students prepare presentations examining the Dust Bowl from one of four philosophical positions: environmental causation,…

Briefly describes activities and questions designed to integrate the study of electricity into any of the specific social studies disciplines. Meeting the performance expectations of the National Standards, the activities are connected to archaeology, anthropology, geography, history, economics, political science, law, religion, philosophy,…

Recommends organizing U.S. history courses around central ideas rather than chronological periods. Argues that this method affords a better grasp of the principal developments in the nation's history by treating issues in depth. Lists eight broad themes around which a U.S. history course can be constructed. (MJP)

Demonstrates how reading, and creative thinking can increase literacy and create historical empathy in a sixth-grade class. The centerpiece of the class on ancient civilizations is an adaptation of "Antigone," by Sophocles. Recommends the use of dramatic literature because of its ability to engage and transform students' thinking. (MJP)

Criticizes the traditional approach to teaching U.S. government as being de-contextualized, piecemeal, incoherent, and ineffective. Summarizes an alternative approach that follows historical development but emphasizes the emerging character of the U.S. political system due to the interaction between values, context, and institutions. Text readings…

Presents a series of lesson plans to be incorporated into an interdisciplinary unit on Japan. Uses the five themes of geography as a framework for a broader exploration of the culture and history of Japan. Specifically addresses women and their role in Japanese society, and other cultural ideas. (MJP)