Social participation, one of the four components of social studies education, means social studies teachers must teach how our social system works, and how to become thoughtful, informed social critics, participate in democratic processes, become involved, be activists and demonstrate responsible concern for improving the system. (Author/VW)

A reading on the future for analysis by students suggests life throughout the Universe. Questions to stimulate discussion are included. (JB)

Objectivity should be an aim of all historical study despite the difficulty in attaining it. By measuring events, documents, or personalities against the standards of the era in which they occurred, students move one step closer to objectivity. Study of time perspective is a social studies skill. (Author/VW)

Science fiction essay for social studies students is used to stimulate analysis of a peoples' characteristics and point of view. (JB)

Social Studies Curriculum Guidelines, A Position Statement recently issued by the National Council for the Social Studies, is having a major impact throughout the country. Two educators draw on their years of experience to analyze this important document. (Editor)