This project includes a mini-lesson to be used at the end of the unit on Latin America. The lesson introduces a service learning project to help Maryland students to address the service learning component needed for graduation. The specific lessons have students identify the changing role of Latin American countries in the world community. Ways in…

As the world grapples with increasing environmental, social, and security problems, population is rarely considered a cause or contributing factor. The relationship of population to the human condition, and to the condition of the Earth, is often subtle and complex. But population growth affects almost every aspect of life from education to…

This integrated unit, intended for use with sixth or seventh graders, introduces students to the trading networks and geographic factors that influenced the maritime spice trade from southeast Asia to the Roman Empire and Han China during the period 100 B.C. to 100 A.D. The unit is designed so that students work in cooperative groups in a series…

These Louisiana state social studies model lessons, developed and written with the assumption that the lessons would be presented by teachers who are certified in the content areas, are designed to be student driven instruction, is inquiry- and performance-based, and assessment is meaningful and authentic. The lessons focus on understanding…

Social studies as a field of study embodies the essence of humankind (where people live, how they are organized, how they change, and how they prosper). This South Carolina social studies framework is based on the statement: "An educated citizenry is the key to a successful democratic society. Therefore, it is imperative that South…

Social studies promotes civic competence through the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities. This Nebraska framework states that the primary purpose of social studies is to help young people make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse and democratic society in an interdependent…

This document outlines six learning outcomes for social studies students in grades PreK-8 in Maryland schools: (1) "Social Studies Skills" (students will demonstrate an understanding of historical and current events using chronological and spatial thinking, develop historical interpretations, and frame questions that include collecting…

The Association of Research Libraries (ARL), in partnership with Geographic Information System (GIS) vendors and foundations launched the GIS Literacy Project in 1992. This SPEC Kit and Flyer provide results from a survey conducted to examine how, in the years since the GIS Literacy Project began, ARL libraries have organized their delivery of…

Discusses current uses of computers in United Kingdom schools, specifically in biology, chemistry, economics, geography, and physics classrooms. Suggests reasons why teachers are using computers and describes their application for simulations; construction, evaluation, and modification of models; and for academic games. (DS)

As a teaching aid in high school Italian courses, guidelines for the use of games, graphic projects, and puzzles are offered. Specific examples include word puzzles, mazes, a map of Italy, dialogues, and idiom exercises. (JB)

Investigates geography knowledge in junior high through undergraduate college level males and females and reports males out performed females in all aspects of geography knowledge and map skills. The gap widened with increased education and was still significant after accounting for numerous personal information items. Knowledge-based and…

Briefly describes several approaches to multicultural education including highlighting minority achievements and emphasizing human relations and social reconstruction. Argues that social reconstruction is the most productive approach for teaching urban geography. Social reconstruction examines the creation and perpetuation of inequality through…

Discusses the practice of first-person accounts in curriculum examinations of race and ethnicity. Refutes the essentialist notion that only members of a particular group can address issues concerning that group. Argues that nonmembers can contribute to a productive examination as long as they have some knowledge of their limitations. (MJP)

Community vitality is no longer tied to economic diversity. Community viability analysis provides a broader perspective by considering community self-image and social activities. Horizontal linkages, social solidarity, threshold values, and community catchment areas are explained and applied to an analysis that shows small towns such as Olsburg…

Maintains that continuing scholarship is an essential activity for professors at all levels in the higher education hierarchy. Nonetheless, the stringent requirements of traditional academic research prohibit most community college geographers from pursuing this option. Recommends broadening the definition of scholarship to include reviews and…