Recommends organizing U.S. history courses around central ideas rather than chronological periods. Argues that this method affords a better grasp of the principal developments in the nation's history by treating issues in depth. Lists eight broad themes around which a U.S. history course can be constructed. (MJP)

Asserts that using children's literature to present life stories can reinforce young children's understanding of life span and help them better understand how goals formed in childhood may help determine an individual's future. Briefly reviews and recommends 15 children's books focused on life stories and decision making. (MJP)

Describes a middle school history unit focused on the African American experience. The unit is constructed around four general types of historical questions that can be applied to any history unit. These are informational, empathetic, methodological, and analytical/evaluative. Provides examples of each type of question. (MJP)

Discusses the "flashback" method of history instruction that begins with analyzing specific, current conditions and then traces their historical evolution. This method allows students to feel connected to the subject while participating in its historical investigation. Compares the "flashback" and the traditional chronological method's approach to…

Presents an annotated bibliography of children and young adult's books notable for their emphasis on human relations, sensitivity to cultural diversity, originality, scholarship, and high literary quality. The books are arranged by categories and themes and keyed for their usefulness in implementing thematic strands of social studies curriculum…

Discusses this year's recipients of the award that honors books dealing with subjects related to U.S. ethnic minorities and race relations in a manner suitable for young readers. The books include the story of a young Navajo girl learning to weave and an account of the Tuskegee airmen. (MJP)

Presents background information and instructional materials for a lesson plan concerning the interaction between Jackie Robinson and President Eisenhower regarding the integration of public schools in Little Rock, Arkansas. Robinson chided the President for his cautious response to violent opposition to integration. Includes a copy of the…

Presents an introduction and overview concerning integrating use of the Internet with citizenship education. Briefly reviews Web sites useful for citizenship education. These include Thomas, which provides summaries of bills currently going through Congress, and the Electronic Policy Network. (MJP)

Presents the National Council for the Social Studies' position paper on character education. Calls for a renewed effort by social studies educators, schools, and communities to teach character and civic virtue. Argues that students must be offered a combination of instruction and guidance on civic virtue to counter increasing indifference. (MJP)

Presents a series of excerpts from the UNICEF report, "The State of the World's Children 1997." The excerpts focus on the abysmal state of education for many children in developing countries. Grinding poverty, child labor, and a lack of educational support have produced a near-global crisis. (MJP)

Argues that traditional classroom management, with its emphasis on negative authoritarian rules delivered intact from the teacher, is in direct conflict with the goals and objectives of citizenship education. Proposes an alternative consisting of a collaborative and responsible rule-making effort between the teacher and the class. (MJP)

Provides guidelines, activities, and teaching tips for creating and maintaining an open, cooperative, and participating social studies classroom. These guidelines offer support and structure to the students, encouraging them to engage in constructive dialog without fear of undue criticism or rejection. (MJP)

Describes a high school geography class that emphasized hands-on and experiential learning. The students designed travel brochures, planned overseas trips on a budget, and even produced commercials. One of the more popular activities involved different groups creating poster board maps of specific regions and then combining them for a global map.…

Recounts a group of western educators' three-week tour of Korea, sponsored by the Korean Studies Workshop. The educators interviewed administrators, attended lectures, and visited elementary and secondary schools. Provides an excellent overview of the state of Korean K-12 education, including proposed curricular reforms. (MJP)

Addresses some of the problems facing the educational system of Hungary as it moves from a Marxist perspective to a system attempting to inculcate democratic principles. Most Hungarians are optimistic although the old system was entrenched and enforced for many years. Includes comments from many citizens. (MJP)