In this latest edition, Jesus Garcia follows John Michaelis' long-standing tradition of offering a solid balance between theory and practice in social studies instruction. The twelfth edition of Social Studies for Children has been thoroughly reorganized and revitalized, beginning with a definition of and purpose for social studies, a critical look at the social science disciplines, and an examination into the diversity found in America's public schools. Its continued multicultural emphasis provides future teachers with lessons, units, and guidelines that reflect the realities of elementary and middle school classrooms of the 21st century. The text's content and exercises offer a wealth of information about how to integrate various disciplines into social studies instruction. In addition, each chapter features lesson plans, study guides, checklists, worksheets and activity cards that reinforce the content and provide practical classroom suggestions.