Social Studies Methods in Elementary Education

Social Studies Methods in Elementary Education is based on the belief that effective social studies education is a necessary step in promoting understanding of, and participation in, democratic societies. The material in the text prepares future elementary school teachers to provide their students this effective education. The material in the text is organized around the words what , why , and how . What is social studies education? Why is it important? How is it most effectively taught? The book is divided into six chapters. Chapter I introduces students to the nature, scope, and definition of social studies. It helps readers develop an accurate knowledge base and an understanding of social studies as a field, a curriculum, a theme, and an interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary subject. Chapter II discusses the rationale and purpose for teaching social studies in Ka 8 classrooms. Chapter III describes how to teach social studies and provides examples of unit lesson plans. In Chapter IV, readers are introduced to ideas and suggestions for managing learning in social studies classrooms in order to achieve instructional goals. Chapter V provides examples of assessment models that promote authentic learning and the development of real life skills. The final chapter of the book explores the idea of bringing the world into the classroom by exposing students to quality children's literature. It provides and discusses resources teachers can use to find current children's books that speak to the themes and standards of K-8 social studies curricula. Social Studies Methods in Elementary Education is both thought provoking and insightful. The book is an excellent resource for students who plan to teach at the elementary level, and who will be responsible for educating the next generation about the relevance of social studies in their lives and the importance of their participation in civil society. Abalo F. Adewui earned his Ph.D. in Curriculum Instruction and Educational Leadership at Oklahoma State University. He is a professor of elementary social studies methodology and curriculum theory and development in the College of Education and Human Services at Central Michigan University. Dr. Adewui has taught English and American Studies in both middle and high school and served as a teacher trainer and administrator in Africa. His research interests include teaching in non-traditional settings, service learning, critical thinking, and global connections and interdependency in social studies. He has presented and published on topics related to classroom teaching, social studies, and global issues."