According to the authors, we live in a society that is deeply influenced by technology, and social studies classrooms are ideal places for students to conduct inquiries into timely and relevant technological issues. In this article, the authors describe an approach that can be used across many situations to teach students to think critically about…

It seems each generation of young people finds new ways to express life's complex emotions and experiences through music. As a favored outlet for self-expression, music also provides future generations with a fascinating historical record. Sound recordings and sheet music of once popular songs offer unique opportunities for students to analyze…

Presents 10 photos and a narrative depicting the culture of a remote village in Shanzi province, 400 miles southwest of Beijing. Provides information for obtaining additional print and audiovisual material on this village. (JDH)

Summarizes the incidents of vandalism and violence perpetrated by a teenage group called "skinheads," which occurred on the north side of Chicago, Illinois, on the night of November 9, 1987. Includes information about "skinhead" activities around the United States and how communities and the media have reacted. (JDH)

The biology, the behavioral, the cultural, and the social dimensions of agression are reviewed in relation to the role of teachers in the role of learning about conflict and conflict resolution. (KM)

Suggests teaching techniques, content, and problem areas to be considered when teaching about black family life in America. The article discusses advantages of separate courses as opposed to units within a course, the importance of examining literature, who should teach, effective pedagogical styles, and being mindful of assumptions about the…

Suggests reasons and methods for learning about the elderly. Nine information-gathering activities for children are described, including tombstone reading, interviews of older persons, book reports, and attitude analysis. (Author/DB)

Discusses American society's shift from cultural assimilation, or the "melting pot," to cultural pluralism, or ethnic identity. Notes dangers inherent in an overemphasis on pluralism and presents recommendations for social studies teachers to achieve a balance between the common core values of our society and those of cultural pluralism. (KC)

Reviews the impact of German unification on German society, politics, and culture. Contends that four decades of separation created political and cultural differences that are difficult to overcome. Expresses concern about the growth of intolerant attitudes and nationalism among citizens of the former East Germany. (CFR)

Describes the German health insurance system which is mandatory for nearly all German citizens. Explains that, along with pension, accident, and unemployment insurance, health insurance is one of four pillars of the German national social security system. Asserts that controlling costs while maintaining high health care standards is a national…

Asserts that the participation of citizens in the U.S. Census is vital because the quality of the census is increased and in turn allows for the accurate depiction of U.S. society and allocation of resources. Believes that service learning enables students to learn about and participate in the U.S. Census. (CMK)

We often hear that democracy is not a spectator sport. This is certainly true of trial by jury, a cornerstone of our democracy, which depends on the willingness of Americans from all walks of life to devote themselves to the difficult work of determining another person's guilt or innocence of a crime. But the work of those citizens selected to…

Presents sample lessons for teaching about the American family. The lessons are organized into four categories: (1) what is a family? (2) using the family to introduce a topic or time period; (3) American family life and family roles; and (4) contemporary family issues. Activities include class discussion, picture recognition, assigned readings…

Presents insights resulting from an inter-generational living/learning project involving university students and older adults. Techniques are suggested for teaching social sciences with emphasis on the elderly. (Author/DB)