Teaching Social Studies in an Era of Divisiveness offers readers insightful and compelling perspectives of why social issues are essential knowledge for engaging in democratic discourse and developing justice-oriented citizens. This book will inspire and empower educators to tackle critical and contemporary issues that form the foundations of citizenship based on equality and shared sense of belonging. Drawing on a wealth of academic debate and well-crafted, issue-based cases, 21st Century Social Issues grapples with conflicting views of unresolved social issues and diverse experiences moderated by identity, politics, nationality and equity. It will transform social studies teaching and learning.

Tina Heafner, professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte; chair, College and University Faculty Assembly of the National Council for the Social Studies

In an era of extreme political partisanship and gridlock, it is imperative that young people develop the knowledge and skills necessary to deliberate, collaborate, and make reasoned decisions about important issues. Teaching Social Studies in an Era of Divisiveness is an excellent resource for social studies educators who are looking to help young people develop these skills by engaging in discussion about important and often controversial public issues. It is a must read for any educator who is interested in the future of our democracy.

Brooke Blevins, assistant professor, Baylor University

In an era where the discussion of social issues are stymied by standardization and high-stakes testing, Teaching Social Studies in an Era of Divisiveness provides teachers and teacher educators with a powerful primer that challenges status quo education. Each chapter in this book features both critical knowledge of social issues that demand discussion in today’s social studies classrooms and keen insights into various ways to engage youth in the deliberation and dialogue required of citizenship in an interdependent society. Teaching Social Studies in an Era of Divisiveness is an indispensable text for anyone interested in enacting the democratic promise of social studies education.

Alexander Cuenca, Indiana University

If only we could predict the exact social issues that each generation of students will face! While Teaching Social Studies in an Era of Divisiveness is not a crystal ball, it does provide a unique foundation for meeting the ever evolving political needs of students. In-depth case studies on controversial topics including racial and ethnic relations; marriage equality; digital literacy and financial literacy offer practical examples for embracing principles of inclusivity, tolerance and democratic deliberation. It’s an invaluable handbook for any social studies educator brave enough to ‘go there’ and celebrate critical, informed civic practice in their classroom.

Ashley Woodson, assistant professor, University of Pittsburgh