Teaching Civics in the Library: An Instructional and Historical Guide for School and Public Librarians

by Reneé Critcher Lyons

Overview

Civics education is "on the books" in all 50 states, yet civic illiteracy is widespread. Only one third of 12th graders are able to explain the significance of the Declaration of Independence, and fewer than half of 8th graders know the purpose of the Bill of Rights. This instructional guide explores the foundations of civics education—and the reasons for its demise—with commentary from civics education leaders and scholars across the nation.

Questions for eliciting civics discussion are provided for all grade levels, along with detailed civic action and service projects and reading plans. Best practices and grant writing options are included. The author argues for a return to early 20th century civics education and details the traditional and present-day role of America's libraries in developing a civic-minded populace. School and public librarians are urged to utilize trade books and carefully evaluated websites to integrate civics within educational and youth services offerings.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786496723
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers
Publication date:	11/03/2015
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	6.90(w) x 9.90(h) x 0.60(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Reneé Critcher Lyons is an assistant professor in the School Library Media Program at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee. She lives in Boone, North Carolina.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Preface
I. The Importance of Civics Education: Are We a Nation of Participants or Spectators?
II. History and Current Status of Civics Education in Public Schools
III. Anticipated 21st Century Progression
IV. Traditional Role of School and Public Libraries in Civics Education
V. 21st Century Role of School and Public Libraries in Civics Education
VI. Collection Development for Civics Education Integration
VII. Thematic Integration: Introduction and Activities and Resources, ­Pre-K to Grade 1
VIII. Thematic Integration: Activities and Resources, Grades 2–4
IX. Thematic Integration: Activities and Resources, Grades 5–6
X. Thematic Integration: Activities and Resources, Grades 7–8
XI. Thematic Integration: Activities and Resources, Grades 9–10
XII. Thematic Integration: Activities and Resources, Grades 11–12
XIII. Civics-Related Reading Promotion Plans
XIV. Lesson Plans in Association with Foreign-Born American Patriots: Sixteen Volunteer Leaders in the Revolutionary War
XV. Ask for Support: Civic Organizations, Resource Centers, Civic Institutes and Support Networks
XVI. Closing Tips and Thoughts
Appendix A: Discussion
Appendix B: Civic Action
Appendix C: Civic Service
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

recommended”—ARBA.

From the Publisher