Objectives: In this Paper, I examine how high school social studies content standards in the United States address fundamental concepts of American governance, particularly the concept of democracy. Methods: I conducted a qualitative textual analysis of government/civics content standards from all 50 states, Washington DC, and the Advanced…

Discusses a study conducted to determine if the directed use of newspapers could increase students' content acquisition in a secondary American Government course. Results show an increase in students' content acquisition, but further studies are needed with many more students participating. Includes chart quantifying data from study, and a sample…

A game to help secondary civics students understand how a Congressional bill becomes law is presented. The game board is pictured; teachers have to run off copies on the photocopier and then add dice and some colored pieces of paper for students to use as markers. (RM)

This resource guide was prepared to provide government and political science teachers with information on recent trends and developments in political science, sources of classroom materials, and a listing of professional references. It is hoped that the guide will be helpful to social studies supervisors, librarians, political science educators…

Reviews a series of films entitled "Equal Justice Under Law" and suggests how the films might be used in secondary and college classes. The major objective of the films is to help students understand the role of the early Court in establishing the American system of government. (Author/RM)

Reviews how classroom teachers can use Congressional Satellite Public Announcement Network (C-SPAN) to stimulate and instruct students in social studies and American Government classes. Outlines future plans for classroom outreach which include a guidebook, training tapes, lesson plans, and teacher seminars. Includes an address for further…

Discusses the use of "The Federalist Papers" in U.S. government textbooks to explain the political theory on which the U.S. Constitution is based. Presents an assessment of how 18 introductory texts covered the papers. (GEA)

This guide will help secondary teachers use the 1984 elections as a tool to teach about American government and politics. Students use their town, county, or city as the classroom. Newspapers, community resources, campaign materials and activities, and the broadcast media are their textbooks. (RM)

Discusses the importance of the Northwest Ordinance to the nation, the Northwest Territories, and Indiana Territory. Concludes the document is fundamental for U.S. history instruction and advocates that it should be studied in the social studies classroom. (RKM)

This volume links theory to practice by featuring tested techniques in teaching democracy by being democratic in the classroom. The book is divided into three parts and six chapters with an introduction presenting a theoretical and analytical framework of democracy and democratic pedagogy. Part 1 features "The Democratic Classroom" and includes…

This column examines some recent media materials for middle and high schools on federal, state, and local government; the legislative process; the presidency; the judicial branch; elections; and citizen participation. Complete ordering information is included. (Author/SJL)

Trade has been an important factor in United States from the 17th century to the present day. The United States was born out of a trade dispute with Great Britain. From the moment the founders first set pen to paper, trade has helped spur U.S. economic growth. This booklet covers trade topics such as policy, perspectives, difference in nations…

Presents a two-day lesson which helps students understand the distinction between government and private action and, for more advanced students, to apply past court decisions to a hypothetical situation involving commerce and contract rights. Includes a checklist of 25 items which examines government involvement in students' everyday lives. (GEA)

Every state in the United States is divided into smaller units of local government. For example, Georgia has 159 counties. Proponents of reducing the number of counties argue for consolidation on the basis of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Activities are suggested to help secondary students explore this issue. (RM)

American government should be taught using an experiential approach. Activities are suggested. For example, student representatives to school boards can be given responsibility for researching student attitudes and involving others in interaction with the board and administration. (RM)