The 1990s is a decade full of turmoil and trouble. War, debt, and drug use run rampant daily on the fronts of our nation's newspapers. Social studies plays a pivotal role in the development of attitudes of active and responsible citizenship among school-age youngsters. The White House has even responded to these nees with its educational summit held recently. This book has been updated to meet the needs of the ever-changing social studies curriculum and includes the National Council of Social Studies (NCSS) standards. From the historical and philosophical bases of social studies to the developmental characteristics of the middle school student, this book stresses methods of improving the social studies curriculum through interdisciplinary instruction. A valuable resource for practicing and student teachers.