Country Background Notes
provides factual descriptions of the world's independent states, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe. Learn about the people, history, government, political conditions, economy, geography, and foreign relations of China, Georgia, Pakistan, Russia, and some 200 other nations and areas of special sovereignty. Descriptions are regularly updated.
Beyond Penguins and Polar Bears
is a new online magazine to help elementary school teachers develop their knowledge of the Arctic and Antarctica and organize science and literacy instruction around polar themes. The first two issues, "A Sense of Place" and "Learning from the Polar Past," provide lessons and readings on data collection and representation, map skills, comparing the Arctic and Antarctica, measuring ice sheets, and paleontology and archaeology. Book recommendations are included.
Future State
is the U.S. State Department's website for youth. It offers lesson plans on terrorism, Vietnam, and the Cuban Missile Crisis and information about more than 50 international issues. "Careers Representing America," games, and "Meet the Secretary of State" are among the features. Links are provided for learning about current events, geography, and the environment.
