States that teaching the concepts of evolution to secondary school and college students is difficult. Presents a playing card game-based simulation that teaches the complex idea of natural selection in a simple, nonthreatening way. Includes three figures, one table, and step-by-step instructional procedures. (CFR)

Offers a sampling of available ERIC documents and journal articles dealing with teaching world history in high school. Provides bibliographic information and a short description of each piece. (DK)

Outlines an undergraduate geography research methods course that emphasizes bibliographic instruction. Suggests incorporating selected developmental materials. Recommends that students discover materials pertaining to their own areas of interest through systematic search procedures. Includes several sample assignments. (DK)

Provides a framework for introducing students to the geography of the Soviet Union. Identifies basic themes for a geographical approach, including (1) advantages and disadvantages of size and location; (2) spatial impact of political economy; (3) paradox of economic development; (4) challenges of governing a multinational state; (5) integration…

Discusses some misconceptions relating to location and to the earth's hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. Provides correction and explanation of various phenomena. Includes ocean names and sizes, sea level, coriolis effect, greenhouse effect, lightning, magma, and mass wasting. Suggests that myths can be dispelled by exposure combined with…

Discusses a study of sixth grade children's preferences regarding the portrayal of houses on maps. Reports that there were no significant differences between boys' and girls' preferences for the manner in which rooftops and streets were oriented. Concludes that apparent sex differences found previously may have been a result of the preferences of…

Discusses the need to increase emphasis upon European countries, particularly Germany, in geography and social studies instruction. Cites research indicating that postwar Germany has been ignored in the classroom. Expects textbook coverage of Germany to increase, but recommends student and teacher exchanges to broaden U.S. awareness of Germany.…

Provides an annotated bibliography of 11 books from children's literature that can be used to help teach geographic location. Categorizes the books by both geographic skills and grade levels. (CFR)

Reviews the efforts to improve K-12 geography instruction in the past 2 decades. Identifies current projects and their characteristics. Asserts that geographic literacy is even more necessary in a economically and socially interdependent world. (CFR)

Presents a plan for teaching about geography and the environment by having students read a novel. Describes the story in "The Talking Earth," creating a proper setting in the classroom, and activities for before and after reading the book. Suggests learning activities based on national parks, and independent activities for the students.…

Outlines the vulnerability of the West Indies to various natural hazards, especially hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Reviews the geologic and meteorologic causes and consequences of the hazards. Suggests methods of incorporating hazards information in geography classes. Includes maps and a hurricane tracking chart. (DK)

Discusses the unique perspective that the built environment brings to the study of history. Presents questions that can be used to analyze a building to examine identification, form, function, and impact. Suggests that studying a building is like conducting a micro study of the development of a society. (DK)

Contends that qualitative research in geography can be conducted within the constraints of a research methods course. Provides suggestions for using qualitative research fieldwork in a college course. Includes student reactions to the course and constraints on broader use of this methodology. (CFR)

Elementary teachers can interest their students in U.S. geography by having them plan a cross-country concert tour for a rock and roll band. The project develops research, writing, and critical thinking skills as students learn about U.S. geography. The article includes a listing of state tourism agencies. (SM)

Maintains that funding for the improvement of geography at the precollegiate level has increased dramatically, both in the amount of money raised and the number of funders making grants. Provides strategies and guidelines for identifying foundations and proposal writing. Includes a list of helpful resources. (CFR)