The bulletin examines the role and process of social studies curriculum improvement in a constantly changing society. Intended for use by classroom teachers engaged in curriculum work and also by principals, supervisors, curriculum directors, and superintendents, the bulletin offers ideas, examples, and resources related to curriculum improvement efforts. The bulletin is presented in five chapters. Chapter I offers thoughts on curriculum improvement. This chapter emphasizes that the classroom teacher is the key person in all stages of curricular reform and that no single theory of social studies education need necessarily be followed. Chapter II examines a social studies curriculum project undertaken in the Mansfield, Ohio, city schools from 1960-77. Topics discussed include curriculum problems which existed in the early 1960s, improvements and approaches employed, and insights gained which are applicable to future programs. Chapter III reviews curriculum changes in 12 social studies programs throughout the United States and offers summaries of what can be learned from the case studies. Chapter IV discusses locating and using various forms of assistance in curriculum improvement, including consultants, subject-matter specialists, and publishers' representatives. The final chapter provides an annotated listing of over 100 sources (textbooks, evaluation studies, instructional materials, essays, and media guides) to aid social studies teachers in developing and implementing a curriculum. (Author/DB)