This paper revisits the history of environmental education in Australia in the 1970s and 1980s and draws parallels between these and current events in four countries, including Australia. It is argued that little has changed and that few environmental educators confront the inherently political nature of their work. It is concluded that…

Social Security is a contemporary topic that exemplifies a social issue-centered approach to social studies, one that allows students to get beyond the school walls to analyze a contemporary topic that ultimately affects virtually everyone. In this article, the authors provide a brief history of Social Security, describe how it is funded and…

In the current climate of high-stakes tests and teacher accountability, how do teachers avoid teaching to the test? With respect to high school social studies and English teachers, the answer lies with critically analyzing items in current events. By carefully reading news stories, students can determine an author's bias through his or her use of…

"Summers To Step Down, Ending Tumult at Harvard" kicked off in 2006 as one of the most talked about news stories in higher education. Only a few months later, an event involving another elite institution would grab even more headlines, and with more serious ramifications. Three Duke University men's lacrosse players were indicted on rape…

Social studies teachers are constantly seeking ways to connect the past with the present, the near with the far, the familiar with the esoteric. One of the most powerful ways to create such connections is through the integration of current events into social studies lessons (Silverman 2003; Turner 1995). Current events promote students' oral and…

Bioethics--the study of ethical issues in science and medicine--has grown to become a significant academic and service-oriented discipline with its own research centers, conferences, journals, and degree programs. As these issues have moved to the center of public debate, the law has assumed an increasingly important place in the discipline of…

This response to recent criticisms of the new social studies deals with some of the problems in areas of inquiry, value clarification, humanization, current events, and conflict resolution found in social studies texts. (JR)

This book was originally prepared as quick reference for the correspondents, producers, and editors of CBS News. In a time of reportedly frequently confusing civil rights activity, it is considered virtually impossible for individuals to keep track of important events and personalities. This book is intended to be a practical aid in refreshing…

After 16 years, the United States and Cuba are finally holding open, friendly discussions. The article discusses the historical background of the relations between the two countries, and the major issues of concern to both countries. (NQ)

Recommends the resourceful, well-planned utilization of carefully selected current news stories from sophisticated publications to enrich the content of remedial writing classes. Presents three sample cases in which news items become the basis for the exploration of major social and ethical concerns. (DMM)

This article demonstrates how newspapers can be used to develop an understanding of current affairs and develop thinking skills. Three examples of current affairs articles along with learning activities which foster the development of thinking skills are included. (JDH)

The United States has been warned frequently in recent years about the dangers of technological illiteracy. However, it is the danger of moral illiteracy that worries the author as he looks ahead to the 21st century. Domestic issues, the international arena, and the nuclear threat are discussed. (RM)

Secondary social studies students analyze and discuss a case study dealing with free trade in this lesson requiring one class period. (RM)

The history and importance of the Statue of Liberty is developed into a teaching unit. Background information on how and why the statue was built is given. Sample activities for classroom use are included. (DF)