This article provides an example of a social studies lesson from Turkish educational context in order to facilitate comparison with examples of social studies lessons from other parts of the world. This lesson was recorded in a 7th grade class at a middle school in one of the metropolitan neighborhoods in Istanbul. According to the current…

History or social studies teachers are constantly striving to make the past come alive for their students and to help them see that not only does the past relate to the present, but it can also give insights into the future. The recent passing of former President Gerald R. Ford provides social studies teachers with just such an opportunity. Ford's…

This instructional unit combines a study of the Soviet leader V. I. Lenin with a study of libraries. Lenin was selected as the focus because of his support of books and libraries and because he oversaw a revolution that altered the political and social structure of Russia and the balance of power throughout the world. Included are lesson plan…

Students can develop valuable research skills and learn about our political process by obtaining campaign finance reports filed by all candidates in federal elections. Other statistics and information available from the Federal Election Commission are also valuable learning tools. (Author/GC)

Describes the use of a modified congressional constituent questionnaire to illustrate to secondary social studies students the range of political attitudes (conservative to liberal) on current issues. A sample questionnaire is included. (AM)

Describes an innovative teaching approach used in an undergraduate political science course on the American presidency. Procedures and objectives for centering the course on a press conference theme are presented. Information is also presented on course evaluation and student motivation. (DB)

Reports on an experimental program that links teachers and locally based international experts who have volunteered to serve in the schools. The experts are used for in-class presentations, informal advising, inservice workshops, parents' association meetings, and curriculum revision. (Author/KC)

Procedures for organizing political education assemblies which present high school students with both sides of political issues, credentials of candidates, and an understanding of the U.S. political system are described. The assemblies provide non-partisan or bi-partisan information for students to make logical, responsible decisions. Information…

Offers a collection of seven lesson plans and 33 activity ideas for the celebration of the Constitutional bicentennial. The lesson plans and activities span grades K through 12. (JDH)

Provides a simulation of the United States Constitutional Convention. The simulation involves students in re-creating the conflicts between the colonies, seeking compromise, and comparing the outcome of the simulation with the actual Constitution. (JDH)

This student text and teacher's guide are part of a curriculum unit that examines the process and progress of democratic government from ancient Greece and Rome through the beginning of the twenty-first century. Part 1, "What is Democracy?" explores the growth and spread of democratic principles throughout the Western world, with…

Notes the importance of using documents in teaching social studies. Describes several sources which teachers can use to teach about the United States Constitution and the Northwest Ordinance in the bicentennial year of 1987. Describes and lists several organizations, programs, and materials. (RKM)

Presents a game which has students interpret Articles I, II, and III of the U.S. Constitution to understand the allocation of powers among the 3 branches of government. The game helps students understand the interaction between the 3 branches of government, stressing the separation of powers and the system of checks and balances. (JDH)

Provides a lesson plan for senior high school which uses writing to help students learn about World War II. (JDH)

Many educators in high schools and colleges have taught about European history and politics in the context of the Cold War and the division of Europe into two blocs. The revolutionary changes in 1989 and the collapse of the Soviet Union have made obsolete the superpower spheres of influence that divided Europe. This curriculum project contributes…