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September 2007
National Constitution Day +
Welcome to this month's issue of ProQuest Teachable Moments. This issue focuses on a myriad of topics, including the Constitution, Hispanic Heritage Month, hurricanes, Religious Freedom Month, and more.

		eLibrary: National Constitution and Citizenship Day The U.S. Constitution was signed on 9.17.1787, and our nation celebrates its 220th birthday this month. In 2004, Congress designated 9.17 as a special day to help students understand the structure, heritage, and benefits of this important document. Is the Constitution still flexible enough to meet all its challengers? eLibrary Curriculum Edition: Balancing Act The Constitution has always been challenged by government efforts to suspend individual rights when dealing with major events such as wars, riots, and economic disasters like the Great Depression. Who determines the balance between individual rights and the rights of society? eLibrary Elementary: History & Hispanics Hispanic Heritage Month acknowledges the influence of Hispanic Americans on politics, the economy, and social and cultural life throughout the United States. How does history affect the culture of Hispanic Americans?
		eLibrary Science: Global Warming Impact September is historically the most active month of the hurricane season, which spans 6.1 to 11.30. Scientists know that global warming can affect the temperature of the oceans and trigger more frequent and more devastating hurricanes. What does global warming have to do with hurricanes? eLibrary BookCarts: Exemplary Librarians Recently, ProQuest has discovered more and more librarian-teachers who are using the BookCart tool in creative and effective ways to promote inquiry-based learning in their schools. Why is it important to recognize the exemplary work of 21st-century librarians?

		ProQuest Platinum: Nation of Immigrants The U.S. is a nation of immigrants. Many of the largest groups have created their own personal ethnic celebrations and some of these have evolved into national celebrations. Why do we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month? ProQuest Historical Newspapers: Supreme Court The Supreme Court is charged with interpreting the Constitution as it applies to new or recurring issues arising from local, state, and federal laws. The Court's decisions have varied remarkably over time, especially on civil rights for African Americans. How exactly have Supreme Court rulings changed over time?

		SIRS Decades: Changing Laws, Changing Court The Constitution gives the Supreme Court of the U.S. the final say on the balance between individual and societal rights, but historically it has moved toward individual rights, in cases involving women's suffrage; civil rights, and reproductive issues, such as Roe v Wade. Why is understanding the Supreme Court essential to National Constitution and Citizenship Day activities? SIRS Researcher: Constitution Day Activities September 17 marks the 220th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, is the current focus of many national events, policies, laws and the issues that arise from them. What's an excellent way to celebrate Constitution Day with my students? SIRS Discoverer: Supreme Court September is Hispanic Heritage Month. Because the illegal immigration problem may have affected public attitudes toward Hispanics, students can easily overlook the contributions of millions of other Hispanic Americans who are legal citizens. How much do you know about Hispanic American people and culture?

SIRS Challenge Quests & Spotlights
Banning books in schools is a controversial topic. Some school officials and educators challenge or remove books that they feel are offensive or inappropriate. Others believe that schools should teach students about the sensitive topics found in these books. Can you name two of the five most-challenged books of 2000 through 2005? Get the facts in
this month's Challenge Quests.

As a democracy, America relies on its residents to be informed and to participate in government processes, such as voting, volunteering, jury duty, paying taxes, and obeying the law. Dive into
our Spotlights.

World Conflicts Today: Is terrorism ever justified?
Since the attacks of 9.11.01, some commentators have argued that although terrorists bear moral responsibility for their actions, governments sometimes do things that cause terrorists to act. Do you agree? Do governments ever cause terrorism without making themselves morally responsible?

Explore this theme in detail inside our newest email newsletter, History Happenings. Our theme: Just War

CultureGrams: Religious Freedom Month
To fully value religious freedom, it helps to first appreciate the diversity of religious thought and belief among the world's peoples. This activity will help students learn more about three major world religions -- Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism -- as practiced in India, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand. Do we really need to celebrate religious freedoms?

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Oct. 3-5, Springfield, Missouri
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American Assocation of School Librarians (AASL)

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