Two science classroom techniques that can be used in the social studies classroom to motivate students involve puzzling phenomena and relating science to social issues such as over-population, energy, and pollution. (JR)

An authority on career education proposes a relation between this area and the social studies' thrusts of inquiry training and values education. He defines a new role for social studies in building a multidisciplinary approach to understanding an individual's economic role and social problems in general. (KM)

Science is a social issue. The examination of scientific issues offers an excellent opportunity for helping students develop a synthesized perspective on science related issues--a synthesis of the technical data coupled with social, political, economic, ethical, and philosophical information. (RM)

There is a need for better understanding and cooperation between the sciences and the social sciences. Overlap occurs in the area of applied science, where moral and ethical issues arise. (Author/AV)

Provides background information and related learning activities for three areas of inquiry involving youth and violence: (1) "Evolution of the Juvenile Justice System"; (2) "The Literature of Crime and Poverty"; (3) "Youth Crime and Public Policy." Includes a list of six recommended Web sites. (MJP)

Presents 11 interdisciplinary projects that can be used as part of a unit of study on the Great Depression. The projects incorporate various styles of learning and disciplines, including art, music, mathematics, literature, and history. The projects include debates, dramatizations, creating newspapers, and collecting oral histories. (MJP)

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)

Maintains that the science/technology/society movement (STS) is a megatrend in science education. Explains that STS takes a holistic, problem-solving approach toward teaching science, one that is student oriented and much more accessible than traditional approaches. Lists tables that contrast STS and traditional classes. (DB)

Discusses society in the future. Expresses concern over social problems and misuse by the media of terms relating to diversity and multiculturalism. Lists themes for effective instruction in social studies as integration of topics and meaningful, challenging, active, and value-based learning. Urges that self-esteem, mutual respect, and cooperative…

Describes the use of poetry in U.S. history instruction. Contends that using simulations, historical documents, and literature help make students keenly aware of conflicts and the human impact of historical events. Recommends that students write poetry related to historical topics and includes five examples of student-written poetry. (CFR)

Asserts that the development of the U.S. film industry has been linked to key historical concerns such as the expansion of urban culture, the mushrooming of technology, population and industrial booms in California, and the growth of a coherent national culture. Presents an annotated bibliography of feature films for classroom use. (CFR)

Argues that literature-based social studies provide personal perspectives for examining essential social studies concepts and generalizations. Includes lesson sequences utilizing trade books to teach about poverty, hope, and involuntary relocation for primary, middle, and secondary school students. Briefly describes the books mentioned and…

Reviews the worker's theater movement of the 1930s that attempted to unite actors and audience in devising solutions to societal problems. Maintains that re-enacting its dramatic forms is a thought-provoking way to introduce students to the issues of the time. Includes instructions for suggested activities. (MJP)