This experimental eight week unit is designed to give students a more detailed understanding of the concepts and realities of conflict, violence, war, and international behavior than is usually done with the ordinary piecemeal textbook approach to human interaction. After trial classroom use, it was determined that the activity may be used in…

What are prison conditions like in America today? Do prisons protect society and rehabilitate prisoners? Should punishment be part of a prison sentence and does the fear of punishment deter crime? These and other issues are explored in this illustrated book of readings and student exercises exphasizing critical thinking skills. Selections are…

Intended to fill a gap in social studies, this collection of readings focuses on contemporary fringe political parties and organizations, particularly their stands on race. No editorializing is attempted; rather, the editors impartially introduce each selection, provide questions on the readings, and offer student exercises aimed at stimulating…

This revised social studies course outline follows the New York State Methodology in the development of understandings, the building of concepts, and the generalizations arrived at in the study of a variety of broad issues at the local, state, national, and international levels. General objectives are to provide students with opportunity for…

Provides a description of an upper division college course on nuclear war. The course, which used an interdisciplinary approach and many resource speakers, was divided into three components: the consequences of World War III, the causes of World War III, and the prevention of World War III. Includes a detailed course outline along with required…

Describes a six-week study unit that requires students to examine specific aspects of the Iran-Contra affair in light of models such as presidential leadership style. The combination of a case study, student-centered cooperative learning, and writing across the curriculum proved popular with both the students and teacher. (MJP)

Examines possible reasons for the lack of issues-oriented instruction in social studies classrooms. Provides curriculum suggestions to remedy this, including exploring debatable issues that can be researched and are interesting. Includes 12 instructional strategies designed to maintain student interest and smooth over rough spots. (MJP)

Examines important trade issues and explains why the debate on trade policy will continue as a major political topic. Discusses the efficacy of recent trade agreements and the use of trade sanctions to encourage political change in other countries. Reviews several models of trade theory. (MJP)

Reprints two statements of the Academic Freedom Committee of the National Council for the Social Students on academic freedom and professional standards in social studies education. Stresses the rights and responsibilities of teachers, students, and administrators to protect the freedom to teach and learn in a democratic spirit of inquiry. (CH)

Proposes ways in which the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's documentary series, "The Valour and the Horror," can be used to develop students' critical thinking skills. Asserts that the issues of historical accuracy provide excellent opportunities to discuss historiography, the role of the media in society, and human rights during…

Describes a current affairs program involving the examination of social issues in a Canadian elementary school. Discusses significant aspects of the program, including the debate format, the use of computers, and a partnership with a local cable television company. Includes an appendix of the debating/talk-show format used. (CFR)

Introduces a special issue topic: "Taking Stands in American History." Maintains that every generation has included citizens who have taken stands fusing the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Previews topics and contents of articles that are included in this issue. (CFR)

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…

Illustrates how the sophistication of students' discussion on controversial issues can be increased by explicit attention to (1) the defensibility of more than one position, and (2) the relationship between protagonist's interests and the positions adopted. Presents a case study of a teacher using this scheme as he reflects on and modifies his…

Explores the strengths and weaknesses of the five main philosophical positions currently found in school sex education. Argues that valid sex education promotes rational sexual autonomy, requires pupils to consider the needs and wishes of others, and occurs within a moral framework. Suggests teachers adopt a supportive but neutral position. (MJP)