This Digest describes the development of the 1998 National Assessment of Educational Progress for civics, and the results from that examination of civic knowledge and intellectual skills of students in grades four, eight, and twelve. The assessment format utilized multiple-choice and constructed-response questions. Results were reported by the…

This lesson for grade 12 is designed to raise student awareness of the potential of human cloning and of the effects it could have on the present, naturally born population. Students work in teams to research the issue and are provided with background information, detailed instructions, on-line resources, and reflection questions. The teacher's…

This teacher's packet accompanies the Smithsonian exhibition "The West as America: Reinterpreting Images of the Frontier, 1820-1920." The lessons are intended for grades 10-12 but can be adapted for both elementary and middle school students studying expansion of the U.S. frontier. The five lessons in the packet include: (1) "Heroes…

Students at all grade levels in Wisconsin are required to learn about the principles and ideals upon which the United States is founded, and understand the world in which they live. Students at all levels should develop skills and understandings in all five strands found in the Wisconsin standards for social studies. These skills and…

In this lesson plan, the city of Malibu (CA) is at the mercy of the weather phenomenon El Nino. The press secretary for the Mayor of Malibu recognizes an opportunity to turn this potential natural disaster into a re-election campaign. A task force will be assembled to protect the lives and property of the community. Students role play members of…

Describes results of a study designed to discover the views of third, sixth, ninth, and twelfth graders about their need for family life and sex education. Data revealed strong desires of students for more information. (JD)

Describes, interprets, and evaluates one secondary social-studies teacher's efforts to engage students in learning about self, others, and the world. Identifies several schooling regularities (classroom environment, student expectations, teaching load, and professional isolation) complicating teachers' efforts. Illustrates how innovative…

National survey data indicate that 91% of metropolitan high school seniors and 78% of nonmetropolitan seniors had computers available in math classes. Computer availability was lowest in nonadjacent rural counties and in the South. Nevertheless, metro and nonmetro students reported similar frequency of computer use; 71% and 69%, respectively,…

In a survey of 517 8th- and 12th-grade students in Waterloo County (Ontario) schools, the majority of students who had attended outdoor and environmental education programs reported high levels of learning in key areas of ecology and environmental studies. In addition, most respondents reported feeling positive about the program and their…

Presents a program targeting minority high school honor students in their junior and senior years. The program's goal is to educate youths regarding current alcohol and drug research and treatment approaches. Utilizes a mentor-based curriculum, along with lectures, laboratory sessions, a research project, workshops, and site visits. Includes a…

Paper examines ethnic differences in licit and illicit drug use among American 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students, with a particular focus on girls. Across ethnic groups, drug use is highest among Native American girls and lowest among black and Asian American girls. Trend data suggest that girls' and boys' drug use patterns are converging.…

Described is an interdisciplinary program designed to coordinate the physics and calculus courses for seniors in a Massachusetts high school. Target audience, benefits, team coordination, and impact are discussed. A list of suggested crossover topics is provided. (CW)

Argues that individual teacher's conceptions of disciplinary knowledge are reflected in the curricula but that institutional factors also influence the curriculum presented to students. Discusses constructivist epistemology and employs qualitative research to interpret teachers' conceptions in a case study of three biology teachers. Suggests…

Discusses the challenges of making a grade 12 law course come alive. Suggests using oral simulation work such as mock trials, moot courts, and adversarial debates. Illustrates the use of the "Grade A Contract" to keep students on task and promote skill support, and presents an outline of a moot court enactment. (LS)

Investigates the effect of gender on expectations of salary and judgments about occupational suitability. Responses from 1,062 high school students were collected. Females provided lower salary estimates than males and were less likely to stereotype occupations on the basis of gender. Academic achievement was negatively correlated with…