This Yearbook is an expression of the National Council for the Social Studies' conviction that social studies teachers need to recognize their responsibility for introducing controversial issues into the classroom. Examination of social problems serve as a means to teach students how to think, rather than what to think, so that students will be…

One of a series of bulletins designed to aid social studies teachers, this issue serves as a guide in handling controversial issues in the classroom. The need for a policy statement from the local board of education is noted as the first step in allowing the free exchange of ideas. Considerations in deciding to study an issue are suggested:…

Covers the objectives, subject matter, and requirements of a one-semester course based on ethics and national security policy taught within the School of Public Affairs at the University of Maryland at College Park. The course is designed to give students an opportunity to develop skill in the analysis of moral and ethical issues. (JDH)

Presents an overview of the competing visions of the literature curriculum currently being advanced. Also presents the historical roots of the approaches, as well as the assumptions about learning and adolescents that each approach makes. (NKA)

It is proposed that in an effort to promote awareness, positive self-concept, and healthy attitudes, and to reduce stereotyping, sexual identity issues should be incorporated into English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teaching. Open discussion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transsexual issues may help to reduce the isolation of lesbians and gays,…

This book of essays explores the explicit and hidden curriculum of sexuality from kindergarten through college. The 15 interrelated essays challenge conventional assumptions regarding sexuality and the curriculum by applying non-traditional perspectives to traditionally unresolved problems while proposing specific curricular strategies and…

Presents edited versions of plaintiff and defendant outlines of legal issues and proof (views of cases set to limit issues argued during trials) and trial briefs (comprehensive presentations of legal precedents and arguments) in McLean v. Arkansas Board of Education case focusing on balanced treatment of creationism/evolution in public schools.…

Claims that the proposed National History Standards subvert the legitimate purpose of history instruction, the explanation and understanding of historical meaning, in an effort to redress historical grievances. Argues that the Standards apply a critical perspective to European culture while celebrating the achievements of native cultures. (MJP)

Debate over the Stanford University (California) freshman humanities requirement, hailed by some as the birth of multiculturalism, by others as the death of the Western canon, has been rekindled as Stanford reconsiders its curriculum. Some consider possible changes a political, not academic, action. Reformers favor focusing on development of…

Raises a number of interesting questions about the relationship between controversial contemporary art and school art. Briefly summarizes the reactions of several groups of teachers and students after attending a controversial exhibit. Concludes with some recommendations for bridging the gap between the two art worlds. (MJP)

Argues that the current presentations of "nationalism" in the Alberta social studies curriculum are archaic and irrelevant. Proposes a more inclusive and critical definition of nationalism and provides some supporting references. Includes four student assignments illustrating and teaching this revised approach to nationalism. (MJP)

Uses the example of New York State to illustrate how the rancorous political debate over education can render national standards irrelevant and contradictory. In appeasing so many factions the standards become inclusive to the point of obfuscation. Provides a brief overview of the controversy concerning national standards. (MJP)

Explains that teaching the historical context of women's legal issues allows future voters to make informed decisions. Suggests ways of including the Equal Rights Amendment, sexual harassment, sexual discrimination, and abortion in the high school curriculum. Recommends several anthologies of primary materials for teaching these issues. (LS)

Covers the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, which gave principals the right to censor school publications. In "One Student's Pursuit of Journalism," Alexandra Salas relates one student journalist's experience, including internships, from high school through the end of college. (LS)

Maintains that experiential methods that rely on students' own life experiences and involve self-disclosure are becoming increasingly common in sociology courses that deal with difficult subjects. Discusses benefits and risks involved in using such methods in a student-instructor dialog. (CFR)