Designed for preservice teachers, this text consolidates social studies content into a framework for practical instruction and lesson planning. It places social studies in a thoroughly modern context and explores how such factors as language diversity and standards at the local, state, and national level--affect teachers. The text retains its hallmark features, such as model unit lessons, teacher-tested activities, technology updates, and authentic children's work, and the Resource Handbook serves as a valuable tool for on-the-job use.