Designed as a tool to help social studies educators promote their discipline, this volume outlines the critical role of social studies in the K-12 curriculum and the part social studies educators must take in assuring that this role is understood and accepted by parents, school boards, and legislators. Material is divided into four chapters. Chapter 1 outlines the essential role that the social studies play in the general school curriculum by cultivating "democratic" citizens. Chapter 2 defines the special nature of a democratic citizen as one who participates in social, political, and economic processes. It is suggested that the development of such citizens through active, participatory learning experiences is one of the most potent contributions of a comprehensive social studies program. Examples of community-based and school-based social studies programs are provided. Chapter 3 reviews the research on political socialization that supports the claim that a strong social studies curriculum is needed in each of the 13 years of formal schooling. The final chapter outlines the role of the social studies teacher in advocating the social studies. Specific techniques for promoting social studies education by working with local media, promoting instruction of the Constitution, recognizing student achievement, building social studies networks, and promoting social studies to parents are discussed. (LP)