ABSTRACT
Context: TE Elementary, TE Secondary, Multicultural Education, K-6, University NCSS: VI (Power, Authority, and Governance), VII (Production, Distribution, and Consump-
tion), X (Civic Ideals and Practices) INTASC Standards: 1 (Subject Matter Expertise), 4 (Instructional Strategies), 9 (Refl ection
and Professional Development) Topics: economics, history, civics, ethical political valuation, critical thinking, perspective con-
sciousness, social action, current events, school funding, civic action, inequality, equity, marginalization, race, role-play/simulation, prejudice, bias reduction, emotional response
Enduring social problems, like poverty, prejudice, environmental issues, crime, and war and peace, transform current events into controversial topics. Classroom experiences with such topics increase students’ knowledge and stimulate their civic-mindedness. By designing class sessions and assignments to address enduring public issues, social studies teachers can tap into the interest and excitement that such topics naturally generate in our students. Classroom activities that promote habits of awareness and interest in current events and social problems can help counter society’s emphasis on individualism and affl uence while age-appropriate explorations of these issues provide students with life-long models for civic engagement.
