The goal of this booklet is to identify and present essential concepts and generalizations within the structure of knowledge of the social studies. The basic rationale rests upon the following assumptions: 1) the development of concepts and generalizations should be given primary emphasis over retention of facts in teaching the social sciences; 2) total coverage within a subject is often neither necessary nor desirable; 3) the inquiry or discovery approach can be used to advantage; and, 4) the content of social science courses should be based on interdisciplinary and cross cultural approaches. Classroom experiences should draw on a variety of stimuli thus the multimedia approach seems appropriate. The basic strategy for using this conceptual framework begins with planning for instruction. Once knowledge is classified, teachers are free to set specific cognitive objectives, and to choose content and teaching methods to implement the objectives. This booklet will be considered successful if the student has gained: 1) knowledge of factors shaping human behavior; 2) awareness and appreciation of past and present civilizations; 3) awareness of alternative solutions to social problems; 4) comprehension of human interdependence; 5) competency in knowledge and information utilization; 6) a commitment to equal rights and opportunity; 7) critical skills to examine his values, and others; 8) a realistic self-concept; and, 9) the skills to function in a world of change. (Author/SBE)