Social Studies for Social Justice: Teaching Strategies for the Elementary Classroom (The Teaching for Social Justice Series)

From the Publisher : Dedication to social justice teaching is important, yet putting one's ideals into practice in American schools is a challenging task. This book goes beyond theory and idealism to fully explore the value and impact of implementing social action and social justice activities in the elementary school classroom. Informed by the experiences of more than forty teachers across the country, this thoughtful resource : (1) examines how elementary teachers, from inner cities to rural towns, use the social studies curriculum to teach about and for social justice; (2) focuses on how teaching social studies for social justice relates to standardized testing, state curricula, and the local challenges teachers face; (3) offers classroom activities and "Reflection Exercises" and "Teaching Ideas" to provide teachers with practical applications for the topics discussed; and (4) includes a list of children's literature books, curriculum materials, and websites "One of the greatest lessons of this powerful book is that teachers can make a life-defining difference in the lives of their students by teaching them to stand on the side of social justice. As the old adage says, 'If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.' Social Studies for Social Justice will help teachers learn how to stand with their students for creative and life-affirming social change."

Dedication to social justice teaching is important; yet putting one's ideals into practice in American schools is a challenging task. This book goes beyond theory and idealism to fully explore the value and impact of implementing social action and social justice activities in the elementary school classroom. Informed by the experiences of more than forty teachers across the country, this thoughtful resource: Examines how elementary teachers, from inner cities to rural towns, use the social studies curriculum to teach about and for social justice. Focuses on how teaching social studies for social justice relates to standardized testing, state curricula, and the local challenges teachers face. Offers classroom activities, "Reflection Exercises," and "Teaching Ideas" to provide teachers with practical applications for the topics discussed. Includes a list of children's literature books, curricular materials, and Web sites.

About the Author:
Rahima C. Wade is professor of elementary social studies in the Department of Teaching and Learning, College of Education, at the University of Iowa

Introduction Understanding social justice education Creating a socially just classroom community Reinventing the social studies curriculum Social justice themes and skills Essential teaching strategies Activism and community connections Looking forward.