Presents a lesson plan designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop and extend their conceptual understanding of the liberties found in the amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Outlines instructional procedures for a two class period presentation. (GEA)

Using the Iran-Contra Affair as an illustration, Shermis describes how civics instruction fails to prepare students for effective participation in U.S. society. Examining five textbooks, he concludes that issues are so condensed and sanitized that there is no opportunity for students to think critically and practice necessary problem-solving…

Discusses the reasons why the microcomputer revolution merits attention within the social studies curriculum. Stresses the skills social studies must help develop for students to deal with the impact of computer operations. (TRS)

Discusses the reintroduction of geography into national school curricula--specifically, Louisiana--as a consequence of the renewed emphasis on the mastery of basic academic subjects. Stresses the challenge of providing teacher training, teaching geography through concepts rather than facts, and makes recommendations for teaching world geography in…

Describes a classroom simulation that has students role play membership in the United Nations. Students are assigned countries and through research and debate learn that country's position on international issues. The culminating activity has students participate in a mock United Nations Assembly vote. Argues that this method encourages students…