Evaluates E. D. Hirsch, Jr.'s proposal for cultural literacy against four standards: clarity, rationale, feasibility, and opportunity cost. Identifying serious flaws in the proposal, Newmann states that the term "cultural literacy" is ambiguous, presents Hirsch's rationale and its shortcomings, argues that the proposal is not feasible,…

Addresses the issue of social studies as an academic field of study and whether or not there is a fixed body of knowledge in the social studies. Examines scope and sequence, the purpose and function of history and social sciences in school programs, and social studies as citizenship education. (LS)

Asserts that negative behaviors and attitudes prevent sustained academic environments. Recommends practical ideas and perspectives to bring changes that contribute to greater student success. Includes two figures depicting an information-constructivist model of school learning and four major components of curriculum decision making. (CFR)