Describes an elementary school social studies unit which can help students in grades five and six understand different cultures by means of analyzing selected readings, participating in simulation games, viewing artifacts and pictures of different cultures; and interpreting data cards. The exercises are intended as a general introduction to…

Presents an activity that gives elementary social studies students a chance to investigate the meanings of personal names from around the world. Uses the Global Names Table to gather from students' neighborhoods the names, meanings, backgrounds, and classifications from different cultures. Concludes the lesson with presentations and selection of…

Discusses the usefulness of the Korean hand game called "Flying Wild Geese" in the social studies classroom that appeals to the young learner, enables students to gain an appreciation of another culture, and assists Korean American children to adapt. Describes how to play the game and provides suggestion on using the game. (CMK)

Considers the reasons for utilizing artifacts when teaching social studies to children. Describes seven artifact kits: (1) an object box; (2) resource kit; (3) primary source enhancement kit; (4) symbol kits; (5) economic process kit; (6) packs; and (7) a kit for an archaeology dig. Provides an appendix for sources of artifacts. (CMK)

Discusses how postage stamps can be used to teach social studies, including ideas for units on national culture, the history of technology, and peace education. Explains how teachers can obtain stamps and discusses stamp terminology. Considers classroom strategies and includes an appendix of Internet resources about postage stamps. (CMK)

Describes a third-grade instructional unit that begins with a basic introduction to African geography and culture. Children's books, from sources as diverse as current politics and Masai folk tales, are used to illustrate key concepts and places. Includes a list of children's books used in the lessons. (MJP)

Believes that students should learn about cultural similarities as opposed to differences to help them understand the connections among the cultures of the world. Provides practical suggestions for meaningful learning experiences focusing on cultural similarities using children's literature, proverbs, a venn diagram, and real-life examples. (CMK)

Describes how to design "Journey in a Box" that is literally a box containing a themed set of photographs, selected artifacts, literature, informational texts, travel-journal entries, and maps that combine to tell a first-hand story of time, place, and culture. Provides a framework and an example illustrating the attributes of the…