This theme issue looks at three issues of religious tolerance. The first article examines a case recently decided by the United States Supreme Court on student-led prayers at school events. The second article explores the persecution suffered by members of the Mormon religion during the 19th century. The final article looks at Martin Luther and…

Arizona's archives, libraries, and museums contain a wealth of source material that can be applied to local, regional, and national topics pertaining to the 2003 National History Day theme, rights and responsibilities. Repositories from around the state share ideas and resources that are available to National History Day students. So that…

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has designated the week of September 17-21, 2001, as "Back to School Week." During this week, state legislators from throughout the country are encouraged by NCSL to contact principals and teachers in their respective districts and arrange for classroom visits to help students…

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has designated the week of September 17-21, 2001, as "Back to School Week." During this week, state legislators from throughout the country are encouraged by NCSL to contact principals and teachers in their respective districts and arrange for classroom visits to help students…

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has designated the week of September 17-21, 2001, as "Back to School Week." During this week, state legislators from throughout the country are encouraged by NCSL to contact principals and teachers in their respective districts and arrange for classroom visits to help students…

Much of the current public discussion in the United States about the Internet and speech rights focuses on the array of materials (particularly sexually explicit materials) that are available on the Internet, the effect of exposure to them on youth development, and whether the material should be regulated. In exploring questions about youth access…

The teaching of law and education for a law abiding behavior have without doubt been neglected in the German educational system. If schools have the task to teach students that they should become involved in a democratic society, that it is worth the effort to get involved in a democracy, then schools must teach their students the concepts and…

This curriculum unit provides middle-school teachers a series of innovative and easy-to-use lessons for the classroom. Five core lessons give students a background in the role of police in society and issues of community crime and safety, prepare students to take part in the Police Patrol simulation with actual officers, and challenge students to…

This planning guide can serve as the basis for innovative Law Day observances all over the United States. The guide offers suggestions for programs for schools and people in the community, as well as creative ways to reach the media. It also presents resources and ideas for conveying how the United States Constitution restrains unlawful arrests,…

Discusses various cases decided by the U.S. Supreme Court during the 1999-2000 term concerning criminal law, the First Amendment, grandparent visitation, and other close cases. Includes a section featuring teaching activities and discussion questions by Michelle Parrini and Jennifer Kittlaus. (CMK)

This study examined the perception and level of knowledge of special education law among beginning school administrators (n=120). Most respondents did not believe they had sufficient knowledge of special education law and expressed a need for additional preparation in special education law. Results support an increase in academic training in…

Delineates the federal judiciary system's creation and evolution. Describes original judicial legislation, illustrating the judicial pyramid: district courts at the base, followed by federal circuit courts, with the Supreme Court at the apex. Identifies first Supreme Court justices. Observes that John Marshall's 34 years as Chief Justice firmly…

Introduces a teaching technique,"You Be the Judge," in which three U.S. Supreme Court cases that focus on discrimination are used to explore the court rationale. Focuses on the criteria set out by the court as proof of discrimination, and allows the students to argue and discuss the issues in the classroom. (NL)

From personal experiences teaching in a prison, suggests how the topic of prisons can be included in social studies instruction. Ideas include learning about prison terminology, recidivism, and student attitudes concerning prisons. Lists resources to aid in teaching a unit on prisons. (CH)

Describes the different perspectives held by minority students toward the legal system and how Law Day can enhance their view of the legal system. Reiterates that many lessons in social studies are value laden and one important goal is to teach the difference between neutrality and objectivity. (GG)