For many educators, citizenship preparation is the main goal of public education (Patrick, 2002, 2004). Yet, because of the nature of how individuals and groups within a society interpret the concept, citizenship may be redefined with each generation (Center for Civic Education, 1994; Giroux, 1988). This research therefore explored elementary and…

For much of American history, political leaders have stood by a principle that "politics stops at the water's edge." While political disagreements about domestic policies are seen as inevitable and even healthy, there has been a tradition of trying to avoid partisan disagreements over foreign policy. As a result, intense disagreements…

The authors report the findings of a survey study in which they investigated high school social studies teachers' current practices, challenges, and needs in relation to instruction of English language learners (ELLs). Thirty-three high school social studies teachers in six English as a second language (ESL)-centered schools in central Virginia…

All students must have access to the general education curriculum (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, 2004; No Child Left Behind Act, 2001). Current literature provides best practices in social studies instruction for middle and high school students with disabilities in general education settings. However, there is a paucity…

The portrayal of the Middle East in school textbooks has been reported to be inaccurate and negative as late as the mid 1990's. Numerous major studies conducted by various researchers and organizations indicate that school textbooks written between the 1970's and 1990's contributed to existing stereotypes of the Middle East held by many Americans.…

One strategy used by Project CREATES to enhance the fusion of social studies with the arts was to provide various forms of professional development to artists and teachers (Montgomery, Otto, & Hull, 2007), including seminars, book clubs, and on-site Arts Resource Coaches. The purpose of this study was to describe the role of the coaches as…

"Teaching and Studying Social Issues: Major Programs and Approaches" focuses on many of the major innovations developed over the past 100 years by noted educators to assist students in the study and analysis of key social issues that impact their lives and society. This book complements earlier books that address other aspects of studying and…

This paper provides information about Ohio Graduation Test, a comprehensive standards-based exam. The purpose of the test is to: (1) Measure the level of reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies skill expected at the end of 10th grade; (2) Ensure that students achieve a passing score as a condition of granting a diploma; (3)…

For middle and high school teachers of social studies and English, this book is filled with examples of instructional strategies that address students' readiness levels, interests, and learning preferences. It shows teachers how to formatively assess their students by addressing differentiated learning targets. Included are detailed examples of…

Written by expert teachers and researchers, "Best Practices for the Inclusive Classroom: Scientifically Based Strategies for Success" looks at field-tested strategies that teachers of inclusive classrooms need to implement to successfully teach all of the learners in their classroom. The purpose of the book is to provide both general and special…

This research examined the change in the perceptions of preservice teachers regarding the use of digital minigames to support middle school level social studies learning. The results of a Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test for matched pairs revealed that participants' (N = 18) perceptions were positively modified by participation in a series of digital…

This handbook can be used by anyone with an interest in mapmaking. The step-by-step guide shows how to draw, plan, and color a one-of-a-kind world map. There is a list of materials, supplies, worksheets, and a trouble-shooting appendix for special situations. The guide also provides a variety of enrichment activities to promote continued…

This document, from the lesson plan series, "Teaching with Historic Places," explores the history of the Old Courthouse in St. Louis, Missouri. Following an introductory section on the courthouse's role as a seat of justice and meeting place, the document sets out objectives for students and teaching activities. The teaching activity…

"The Power of Maps" is an exhibition held at the Smithsonian Institution, October 6, 1992 to March 7, 1993, that presented more than 300 maps dating from 1500 B.C. to today. This exhibition handbook has been organized to help teachers integrate the study of maps with their school curricula. The 17 suggested activities related directly to…

Geography helps one understand the physical and cultural characteristics of the world. Geographic education provides the values, knowledge, concepts, and skills to better understand ourselves, our relationship to the earth, and our interdependence with other peoples of the world. There is a great need to increase the quantity and quality of…