Bringing the Social Sciences Alive: 10 Simulations for History, Economics, Government, and Geography

Both an invaluable resource and a how-to-manual, this book is unlike any other on the market!
All materials are reproducible! Two early charts help teachers to quickly determine which lessons can be used with which instructional units and which skills are emphasized in each item. Without sacrificing content, this book offers a happy compromise to teachers who are often dissatisfied with traditional rote instruction and with many of the substantively weak solutions designed to enliven courses. This book was written with the practicing teacher in mind. It offers ten tested, varied, and refined simulations that will enliven a classroom in grades 7-12 without sacrificing content! In fact, these lessons help a teacher teach concepts, material, and skills more effectively. The lessons are ready-to-use, including directions, background context, reproducible materials, and guidelines for assessment. Topics include: Constructing a New American Government, The Mighty Dorito Cartel, and Making the United Nations Work. The author also provides discussion on designing, modifying, running, and assessing simulations.
Rick Hess is currently an assistant professor of education and government at the University of Virginia. His current research emphasizes the effects (or non-effects) of competition on public school systems.