PBS Teachers Social Studies

With the reputation of PBS, you can rely on credible, quality content. In addition the website is easy to navigate as it is organized and uncluttered.

There are three main sections of information on the social studies landing page. The first section is content divided by grade-subject pages; Of interest to the secondary education teacher is there is a breakout for grades 6 - 8 and grades 9 - 12. The second main section includes additional resources for AP courses. The third section contains social studies activity packs for currently 19 subject areas such as citizenship, women's rights, and immigration.

Further breakdown of the first section on grade-subject pages includes classroom resources, a discussion forum, and professional development page. Lesson plans are available which also include video segments, photos, and primary source documents. The discussion arena allows teachers to blog with each other on various topics such as conference feedback, tools for black history month, and student teaching experiences. Professional development outlines courses for further career development and permits availability venues by entering in zip code.

The second main section provides additional resources for AP courses with a recap pdf document that lists out the PBS series, Frontline documentaries, lesson plans, timelines and additional activities for content area. An an example, for AP US History there is a section devoted to WWII which contrasts "life at home" and "life at war".

The third section is comprised of activity packets and presently there are 19 different subjects including indigenous cultures, religious diversity and In the News. What is exciting about this section is that for each of these topics, you can "grab it" and embed it right into your own web page, creating easy access for your students.

This website is a great resource for teachers not only because of the reputation of quality content of PBS and the plethora of content, but it is also easy to navigate to find information for your desired grade level and topic.

Bookmark this website! http://www.pbs.org/teachers/socialstudies/

Reviewed by Kelly O'Toole